Vieques Insider Spring/Summer 2022

VIEQUES

A P R I L - O C T • 2 02 2 vol. 6 issue 1 www.viequesinsider.com info@viequesinsider.com

787.435.3172

CO N N EC T I N G V I S I TO RS TO V I EQ U ES

A DREAM OF PERSEVERANCE LA RONDALLA DE VIEQUES

BE A GREAT GREEN GUEST

TRAVEL WITH A PURPOSE PARQUE LA CEIBA PROTECTING OUR ROOTS

3

LISTINGS

LIST WITH THE BEST! 22 YEARS OF SUCCESS MATCHING DREAM HOMES WITH DREAMERS

frontdesk@bravosboyz.com www.bravosboyz.com Kevin Cunha

Thom Denton

Broker lic. # 16650

Broker lic. # 16651

c. 787.550.6917

c. 787.550.6913

Once in a lifetime, EL CERRO - The Ultimate Caribbean Retreat perched on a hilltop with Expansive Caribbean Views is now being offered for sale. This unique hilltop property consists of thirty acres and includes three different homes. Each allows solitude from the others yet they are connected by the privacy experienced within the confines of the fenced estate. The property comprises eight bedrooms and nine bathrooms and includes a beautiful swimming pool and sauna. The convenient access is from the nearby Esperanza Village and is entered via electronic access control and boasts a haven of privacy and unparalleled views of the Caribbean. $6,000,000 https://bravosboyz.com/property/el-cerro-the-ultimatecaribbean-retreat/ Welcome to VILLA GALLEGA, a magnificent Italian inspired mountaintop estate with commanding views of Vieques’ North shore and the colorful blues of the Caribbean sea. Located in a small gated community with it’s own private road this is the ultimate Vieques hideaway! Tastefully designed, the home elegantly blends classic West Indies architecture with the modern creating a villa estate equally suited to serve as either a primary residence or the quintessential island retreat. Located on Martineau Hill the home consists of four bedrooms and four bathrooms all air conditioned, including 2 masters en suite and a separate guest house at the pool level. The master bedroom is on it’s own floor with a private deck for sunning or gazing at the ocean or stars. $1,199,000 https://bravosboyz.com/property/villa-gallega/

SANDY COVE SURF COTTAGE sits on La Lanchita Beach in the beach side village of Bravos de Boston.

The neighborhood is characterized by beautiful tropical gardens with the scents and sounds of the ocean nearby. Sandy Cove is one of only a few ocean front properties currently on the market.

The home offers five bedrooms and five bathrooms with one bed and bath in the casita. Sitting on direct sandy beach in the ever popular Bravos de Boston area this home is a true gem and rare find. $899,000 https://bravosboyz.com/property/sandy-cove-beach-front-surf-cottage/ 4

5

HOTEL & WELLNESS CENTER

FINCA VICTORIA @FINCA-VICTORIA

The hotel is located on a hill with wonderful crossventilation, surrounded by luscious vegetation and the soothing symphony of the native Coqui frogs.

Being on one of the highest points of the island provides us with an amazing view of sunrises and sunsets.

FRIDAY NIGHT VEGAN DINNER SERIES

We have become well known for turning our communal house into a pop up restaurant with candlelights and loungy playlists every Friday night. We welcome friends, locals and guests to join in this precious event where we serve a four course plant-based meal created by our collaborator chefs.

We post our menus on instagram (@finca-victoria) every Monday. We suggest you book via email to info@lafinca.com. Don't wait 'til last minute, we fill up quick! We offer 2 seatings, 6pm & 8pm.

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FINCA_VICTORIA

LOCAL ARTISTS BOUTIQUE STORE

The boutique store is located in the hotel’s central structure, where you can help yourself to complementary homage infusions and local coffee.

Our store has been dedicated to outsourcing Puerto Rican artisans that create wonderful natural products such as honey, cold-pressed soaps, reef-safe sunblock, hand-made jewelry, sustainable swimsuits, exclusive collection of kaftans and a variety of smoke blends. Stop by and see our wonderful selection! Our gallery space is open from 9am-7pm AYURVEDIC WELLNESS CENTER & PANCHAKARMA RETREATS

Our tranquil Wellness Center is nestled in rustling bamboo surrounded by lush greenery, inviting you to drop in deeper and connect with yourself. We have many unique and diverse offerings including Ayurvedic Treatments, Chinese Medicine, Herbal Baths, and Western Massage Modalities.

We are excited to announce that we will be hosting Panchakarma Retreats ranging from 5-10 days.

Panchakarma is an Ayurvedic deep purification cleanse, that will revitalize your entire system - mind, body, and spirit. For more information on this and to book your next retreat or any treatments with us send an email to info@lafinca.com. We can't wait to pamper you!

|

LAFINCA.COM

REPLACE ARTWORK KEEP R I G H T PA G E

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QUINTA JABALI First time on the market. One of the most spectacular settings in Vieques, located in La Hueca. Spacious indoor-outdoor living with one bedroom, two bath, modern architect-designed residence surrounded by 2 acres of beautifully landscaped desert tropical grounds. Has glorious views of the Caribbean, Playa Grande, and the cays south of Esperanza. House is built into the hillside of poured-in-place concrete. Off grid net-metered solar power with two Tesla powerwalls.

Two 25,000-gallon cisterns that collect rain from the roof with water purification system. Wonderful saltwater pool overlooking the ocean. High end furnishings with antiques and unique ethnic artifacts. Two car extra-large garage. Storage/utility room. Pool pump room. Plans are available for a second-floor expansion. Showing by advance appointment only, between a very very busy rental schedule. $2,250,000

Phone 787-334-2943 phone 787.741.7001 cell 787.458.7997 www.helendavis.net www.islandrealestate.net 575 German Rieckehoff Vieques, PR 00765 8

9

Our 1 hour tour will take you to the brightest spots on the bay while our tour guides provide local knowledge, education about the bioluminescence and comradery.

AN EVENING THAT YOU SIMPLY WON’T FORGET!

THE

See the BioBay from the comfort of the 6 passenger 24’ catamaran with a quiet, electric motor that is eco-friendly.

ONLY BIOBAY

BOAT TOUR IN VIEQUES! 581

03-5 4 7 8 7 borikuatourspr.com/vieques

islanenabiobaypr@gmail.com

Isla Nena Biobay Boat Tours

islanenabiobayboat_tour

ow r tour n ! u o y k o d Bo is limite as space

10

Perfect for groups and families of all ages

People with special needs accesible tour

Private tours available upon request

VARIANDO & EXTENSO MENÚ

ISMC Office: Route 201 Bo. Florida Next to Aurora’s Chicken & Grill

SERVIDO TODOS LOS DIAS

• TRANSPORT

ISLAND SERVICES & MANAGEMENT CORP.

• CONSTRUCTION • STORAGE

Pollo Asado, Pollo Empanado, Comida Criolla Abierto Lunes a Sabados Mon-Sat 11:00 AM - 4:45 PM

Variedad de Postres, Batidas y Mantecados Roasted and Fried Chicken, Creole food, Variety of Desserts, shakes and ice cream.

787-407-9067

Servicio es nuestra prioridad /Aurorasvqs

787-238-9108

aurelio@viequeservices.com www.viequesservices.com 11

LE A N TOWA R D F U N LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Aahhhh, spring and summer. I don't know if it is the heat or the change of pace with tourism but as the temperatures rise so do desires to slow down and revisit old pastimes from less demanding times in life. What does Rick Bragg say? "Summer comes in great buckets of time." It does seem that the peopled pace of high season on Vieques slows in the groggy heat to a time and place where ladies actually do fan themselves on the porch, and men tip their hats in slow motion. Kids are released from school. I like to believe that the energy and joy emitted by every child on summer break, jumping with abandon from the end of the sugar pier, climbing on the root walls of the ceiba tree, or holding dripping popsicles while navigating a bike or a swing, creates a shift in consciousness in adults... and they start to lean toward fun, despite what is happening in the world or what needs to be done. It is nature's time to teach. Her lessons remind us of what we already know. She has us revisit the real world work of the flamboyans blazing through the scenery. Mangos, sea grapes, papaya and avocados drop like rain and the ocean warms to feel like an extension of your own body. Locals, who often don't go in the ocean "in the winter", hit the beach with the right attitude, and the matured skill of creating perfectly good times. People stand still or lean into a conversation because nature has a way of coaxing us to slow down, to provide a slow meandering path back to her. The full summer curriculum also involves a deeper appreciation and understanding of "island living". Moments of clarity come when the lights flicker or the water doesn't flow and we are once again reminded of lessons learned in the past. Like summertime spent with friends, the use and appreciation of our natural resources has to be carefully planned, not wasted, and nature is our best teacher.

With the right intentions, practice and tradewinds, we will get it right. Enroll now. Book your trip to Vieques and find yourself on the other side of time and in the perfect summer school.

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Kelly Thompson

EDITOR, PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

KELLY THOMPSON CHEO DIAZ MALDONADO

ASSISTANT EDITOR

TOM O’GRADY JR.

ASSISTANT EDITOR

AMY GORDON

WEB MASTER

MICHELLE PHILLIPS

ART DIRECTION / DESIGN

KELLY THOMPSON

DESIGN INTERN

KARILIS MORALES

PRINTER

IMPRESSIONS ASSOCIATES

787.435.3172

WWW.VIEQUESINSIDER.COM info@viequesinsider.com CONTRIBUTORS

Daphne Vosberg Aldana is a long-time resident of Vieques, midwife and writer.

She is the founder of Komadrona Birth & Bienestar and co-founder of Vieques Voices spoken-word and open mic.

Daphne finds continuous inspiration through her work accompanying mamas and babies through the childbearing cycle, and the unique experiences island life provides.

Mark Martin Bras plays an important role in protecting and preserving the ecological environment of Vieques as Director of Community Relations and field researcher at the Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust. He is also co-founder and Community Coordinator of ViequesLove and works daily for preparedness and resilience of the island.

Rosie Dempsey is on the board of directors of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge friends’ group, TiCaToVe. She is a community history book author, an environmental education radio essayist, and is retired from a career promoting international films, national arts festivals, health Amy Gordon is a freelance travel writer who doesn’t feel quite right without a tan. Her articles have appeared in outlets including Harper Traveler, Where Traveler, BizBash and Slow Living.

OOOPS -WE MAY HAVE MISSED SOMETHING!

If it was you, we are truly sorry. If a phone number needs correcting or there is information that could help make our publication more informative, please let us know! Contact kelly@viequesinsider.com.

Tom Kirkbright, a retired USCG licensed Captain and his wife Caroline first set foot on Vieques in 2004. They fell in love with its people, beaches and charm. They bought a house and moved from NJ to enjoy the island life and spend time “On The Water”.

Tom O’Grady Jr. is a Philadelphia-born author, freelance writer and editor with literature and writing degrees from Temple University (B.A.) and Rutgers University (M.A.). Tom has five entertaining novels available in print and digital formats (Amazon), and writes and edits training, marketing, advertising and magazine content online. He currently resides in Northeast Florida.

Vincente Rosario Born and raised in Vieques, Vicente learned to cook traditional dishes from his grandparents, but they also inspired him to create his own unique Caribbean recipes which he now shares with you!

Carmen Cristina Palmer has lived and worked on Vieques on and off since 2001. She is a member of the Juntos Vieques Humane Education board of directors.

Photographer Daniel Fernández is a Puerto Rican born cinematographer and photographer who lives on Vieques with his wife Yeisha. His work has taken him to many corners of the planet including Antarctica, shooting films, documentaries and music videos and his work has been shown at Sundance, South by Southwest, Cannes, Los Angeles Film Festival and more. www.facebook.com/dannycameras instagram @ dfernandezcine Cover Artist AJ Stetson Recently called a ninja for his nimble, silent stealth mode on set, AJ Stetson is a film set/unit stills and portrait photographer based in NYC. A dual citizen of the United States and Italy, AJ is also a drone pilot and scuba diver, and captures still and moving images aerially, underwater, in the studio, and on location around the world. [This summer, locations include Ireland, Sardinia, Tuscany, Berlin, Paris, London, and Montreal.] His portrait work, very much like his persona, coaxes the gentle truth of his subject, exposing their very essence and authenticity. On a visit to Vieques for the second time, Vieques Insider had the privilege to partner with AJ on some photography adventures resulting in stunning images (such as the cover) as well as a beautiful friendship. See AJ's work at www.AJStetson.com or contact him at 646-450-5590 or AJ@AJStetson.com.

The must-have guidebook for first-time visitors and long-time locals.

Buy yours today on Amazon or in shops all over Vieques and Puerto Rico.

Or order a signed copy at www.100thingspuertorico.com.

Komadrona Birth & Bienestar, established in 2021, provides holistic and personalized preconception, prenatal, birth, and postpartum care on Vieques and surrounding islands.

We believe every family deserves access to comprehensive maternity services regardless of socioeconomic barriers. Komadrona works to uphold the principles of the Midwives Model of Care, Human Rights in Childbirth, informed choice, and bodily autonomy.

To support our endeavors FB/ IG: @komdronamidwifery / Contact: Daphne Vosberg Aldana, ASM, CPM, LM (919) 244-1537 komadronamidwifery@gmail.com

The next issue of Vieques Insider will be published in November. If you are interested in advertising email kelly@viequesinsider.com 13

Buy Miss Fuzzi’s Help Vieques Book!

Humane Society

A true story set in Vieques about a dog rescued from the streets who found her loving family. Miss Fuzzi and her story have become the symbolic voice for all dogs & cats struggling to find their forever homes.

help the animals on Vieques.

“Paw”t ograph ed

by Mis s Fuz zi herself !

100% of your purchase price supports Vieques Humane Society & Animal Rescue

FOR SALE AT: Vieques Gifts, Tradewinds Gift Shop, Scallywags, SeaGate Hotel, Vieques Humane Society or online: viequeshumanesociety.org (scroll to Miss Fuzzi) Rt. 200 km 1.4 Santa Maria • 787-741-0209 viequeshumanesociety.org facebook.com/viequeshumanesociety instagram: viequeshumanesocietypr

ecocasavieques.com

www.jakwatersports.com jakwatersp@hotmail.com 14

Located at Calle Luis Bonano Casille in Isabel Segunda near the Vieques Ferry

15

Adventure into the vibrant seas of the Spanish Virgin Islands aboard Vieques' largest, most luxurious motor Yacht Charter. NAUTIMERMAIDCHARTERS.COM

Luxury Coastal Cruises Vieques, PR 754.216.8168

INCOME RENTAL lex trip

$229,000

Income g! in Produc

41 foot Bertram Cruiser Local Expertise and Crew Twin 450hp Diesel engines Snorkel Gear, Paddle-board, Clear bottom Kayaks, & rafts included Refreshments & Ample Shade Private Charters Available

$925,000

8 B E D / 7 BAT H W/ P O O L I N B R A VO S D E B O S TO N

3 A PA R T M E N T S W/ O C E A N V I E W S I N M A M B I C H E

This is

Vieques SO U T H S H O R E

$98,000

4 B E D /3 BAT H F I X E R I N S A N TA M A R I A

SALES: INFO@VIEQUESBROKER.COM RENTALS: FRONTDESK@IPSVQS.COM VIEQUESBROKER.COM

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$3,700,000

30 AC R E S W I T H C A R I B B E A N V I E W S

ADRIENN LANC ZOS 845-430-7479 C-18835

COVID

STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS at www.travelsafe.pr.gov.

VQS 101

Masks are still required during flight or ferry travel and by many establishments on Vieques. Remember that Vieques does not have a hospital. We protect each other by being extra vigilent with Covid precautions. Please do your part to keep our community safe and respect the wishes of the local establishments.

If you are experiencing Covid symptoms while visiting Vieques, please call the Vieques Covid Hotline (787)340-3837.

GETTING HERE

FLIGHT OR FERRY

AIRPORTS San Juan International Isla Grande-15 min taxi ride from SJU Ceiba-One hour+ taxi ride from SJU

SJU San Juan International SIG Isla Grande Airport VQS Ferry RVR Ceiba Airport

VQS Vieques Airport

Ceiba Ferry Port

Puerto Rico Fly from San Juan International (SJU) to VQS 30 minute flight, prices range www.capeair.com • www.viequesairlink.com Fly from Isla Grande Airport (SIG) to VQS 17 minute flight, 10 minute cab ride from SJU-approx. www.viequesairlink.com Fly from Ceiba Airport (RVR) to VQS 7 minute flight, approx 1hr+ cab ride from San Juan to Ceiba $100 trip (not per person) www.viequesairlink.com Charter Flights to Vieques www.airflamenco.net • www.viequesairlink.com • Air Margarita • Air Flamenco • Air Sunshine • Tradewind Airlines www.taxiaereopr.travel • www.mnaviation.com

Ferry from Ceiba to Vieques Requires 1 hour 15 min taxi ride from San Juan International (SJU) to Ceiba (aprox. $110) Vans can seat up to 10 people.

Ferry ticket $2 or you can purchase two days ahead of time on www. puertoricoferry.com with additional fees. Be prepared to wait or possibly be bumped if ferry is full! Vieques residents are seated first. [It is not uncommon for the ferry to be late] www.puertoricoferry.com Arriving at San Juan International Airport Check www.travelsafe.pr.gov for covid requirements.

Publico Vans are located outside baggage claim at SJU and can seat up to 10-12 people. They are managed

by Puerto Rico Tourism and you will be supplied an invoice for your trip before getting in the van. Tips are accepted.

J Take warm clothes on the ferry!

It’s very cold when the AC is on.

J Some airlines charge $1.50 per pound for luggage over 25 pounds.

J Car rentals on Vieques have closing hours! If you arrive after closing time make prior arrangements with the company to receive your car.

J See page 36 for a list of publicos on Vieques.

The SUT (sales and use tax) 11.5 %

Find out what's happening on Vieques.

See the calendar of events @ www.viequesinsider.com

Hurricane season is June 1st to November 30th.

J Marine Traffic App displays near real-time positions of ships and ferries worldwide. Check if the ferry has left Ceiba or Vieques and where it is en route!

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Maritza’s

CAR RENTAL

The company with the newest and largest fleet. And great prices!

UD OF 20 RO

P

We take pride in your ride.

787-741- 0078 787-500-1666

YEARS

E

25

T SERVIC EA

ARS OF GR YE

LARGEST, NEWEST FLEET ON THE ISLAND

maritzascarrental@gmail.com www.maritzascarrental.com

COURTESY VAN SERVICE FLEET JEEPS 4 DOORS 2021 FORD BRONCOS BUDGET FRIENDLY KIA SOULS LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Book before 10/1/22 to receive 10% off!

Go to www.casadecoloresvieques.com to book and type INSIDER10 in the promo box.

Booking Fast!

One of the hottest destinations on Vieques.

But don’t take our word for it.

Read the reviews!

443-961-5242 18

www.casadecoloresvieques.com

I N SI DER TIPS

GETTING AROUND

BOOK EARLY

FILL UP OR TOP OFF! During high season [Thanksgiving through Easter] the two gas stations on the island routinely run out of gas. The gas trucks come on the ferry so it can be a long wait if you run out. If the lines at the station are not long, fill up!

J PUBLICOS/PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION/TAXIS: Publicos are marked with the letters TC for transportacion collectiva (Collective Transportation) meaning that they can pick up other passengers along the route. Look for a van with wording on the side or windshield.

J CAR/SCOOTER/UTV/GOLF CART RENTAL: There are many rental car companies all within the same price range. Most offer Jeeps or SUVs to get you to the most remote beaches, but just because it’s 4wd doesn’t mean you can’t get stuck. Vieques has some world class potholes that are surprisingly deep. When parking at the beach don’t leave valuables in the car and leave the car unlocked. At Sunbay do not park on the ocean side of the road only in the grass on the opposite side. When returning cars you will be charged for wet seats so think twice about leaving the top off the jeep. Make sure you rent from a licensed car rental company. Book early!

J BIKE RENTAL: Bikes can be rented by the hour or day. If you plan on using a bike as transportation make sure you research mileage on Google maps. Also, be aware that most beach roads are dirt, gravel or sand with some steep inclines. Hot, dusty roads; always have water!

>>> GOOD TO KNOW

1 GALLON = 3.78541 LITERS NO ESTACIONAR = NO PARKING YELLOW CURB = NO PARKING

VQS 101

ABOUT TOWN

GETTING YOUR BEARINGS SOUTH SIDE ESPERANZA

FIX A FLAT Pick one of these up at any convenience store or gas station on the island and save yourself a lot of trouble.

Just connect to your flat tire, inflate and go! It will only seal temporarily so call your rental company for directions on where to go to get it fixed.

A TWIST OR A TAP If your car won’t start when leaving the beach, before panicking, first check your battery cable connections.

On rough roads they tend to bounce and loosen. Tighten them up, give them a tap and try again!

Esperanza, on the southern coast, boasts the deep aqua and crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, gently lapping along a picturesque walkway known as the Malecón. Esperanza offers a walkable array of restaurants, museums, stores, piers, boating and social interaction. Sundays are full of music, dominos, and libations. Extend your pleasure east or west along the Caribbean shore to discover art, black sand, roadside food experiences and an endless string of unique beaches so visually outrageous you’ll be at a loss for words and pictures.

NORTH SIDE ISABEL II

Bordered by the wavy blue of the Atlantic, the north side offers a loosely organized configuration of main and side streets, churches, stores, bars, restaurants, shops and municipal offices, all loosely draped around the Plaza, a community square for great gatherings all year round.

Charming and colorful, Isabel II ("town" or "el pueblo" to the residents) is named after the first reigning female monarch of Spain.

Sitting like a decorated cake high above the town is the Fortin Conde de Mirasol, the last Spanish fort built in the Americas.

Exciting News! The Vieques Insider website will soon have an

ACCOMODATIONS GUIDE with links directly to the property owner phone, email or house website.

Email now to receive information on how to include your listing on the site! kelly@viequesinsider.com 19

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GUE S T H O U S E

ON THE MALECON ESPERANZA

787-354 0020

VIEQUES, PU ERTO R IC O

BEA C H B A R & G R ILL

f f a t S s a n a n a B e h t m fro

! o h c e v o r Buen P LOCATED IN ISABEL II OPEN MONDAY to FRIDAY 5pm to 9pm

FOR RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL (787) 741 0401

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VIEQUES BEACHES

Download the Vieques Insider Beach Guide at www.viequesinsider.com For information on hiking trails visit: www.fws.gov/refuge/vieques https://www.ticatove.org/vqs-hiking-trails

La Sea Pla

ya

MoRomp squ eo Airport ito las Pie Bla r ydi n El Parque de la Ceiba

el G

alli

gla

ss

Bea

ch

to

ta

Ferry

Isabel II (town)

Bunkers

Punta Arenas

Mt Pirata 984 ft.

Bio Bay Puerto Mosquito

Esperanza

Public Use Allowed

Pla Pla

SOUTH SHORE BEACHES

........................................................

SUNBAY Accessible by the gated entrance off 997, Sunbay is a one mile stretch of beach. Sunbay has lifeguards and bathhouse. The entrance is 5 miles from Isabel II and 0.7 miles from Esperanza (the Malecon). There is an entrance fee of $2-$4 depending on time of year. ........................................................

MEDIA LUNA Enter the gated entrance off 997 at Sunbay. Follow the dirt road at the end of Sunbay and travel 0.6 more miles to Media Luna. Great for small children, Media Luna is shallow. You can walk 30 ft out into the water and still be in waist deep water. Also, for a free “spa experience,” enjoy an exfoliation from the silky, fine sand. ........................................................

NAVIO Follow directions to Media Luna

but pass Media Luna and take a left at the sign and go another 0.3 miles. The road is extremely rough and 4wd is sometimesrequired but you can also park at Media Luna and walk to Navío. Go into the cave on the left side of the beach (if facing the water) for an excellent photo spot! There’s good surf so bring your boogie board!

22

Cha

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Gra

nde

ESPERANZA BEACH To the east and west of the fishing piers in Esperanza. ........................................................

PLAYA GRANDE Leave Esperanza on 996 going west and come to a T (rt. 201).

Take a left. Go 1 mile to where the road dead ends and take a left. Follow road to the bottom of the hill. Take a right onto dirt road to find a beach spot. Great beach for walking. Playa Grande is a turtle nesting beach so be sure to keep dogs on a leash and watch out for roped off nests. ........................................................

ya

Neg

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Sun

b ay N av Esp Ca y io era o de Me nza Tie dia Ca y rra Lun od a eA fue ra

Pla

ya

Note: Only park in the parking lot, and not in the cul-de-sac at the very end, to avoid fines. ........................................................

PLAYUELA* From 997, turn into the FWS Refuge at the Sol Food truck. Go aprox 2 miles to the brown sign for Caracas. Turn right and go aprox 1 mile to brown sign for Playuela and Tres Palmitas. Turn right and drive 2 minutes to the sign and take the walking path to the left to get to the beach.

A short walk and you’re there! ...........................

PLAYA NEGRA (BLACK SAND BEACH) PATA PRIETA* From 997, turn into Leave Esperanza on 996 going west. the FWS Refuge at the Sol Food Come to T (201) and take left. Drive 0.1 truck and go aprox 2 miles. Pass turn to mile and there will be a guard rail and Caracas and continue straight on dirt small pull off on your left. Park here. [It is road for aprox 1 mile and turn right at easier to turn around if you drive 100 feet Pata Prieta sign. After 0.2 miles, follow more to Gallery Galleon and turn around the road to the right to a small parking in drive just past entrance to Gallery.] area with sign. Walk down the (slippery) Walk down the path to the dried stream gravel path to the left of the sign to the bed and follow to the right.It is about beach. Rough road so 4wd is recommenda 20 minute walk to the beach. If it has ed. Bring a beach umbrella as there is rained, stream bed will actually be a small little shade! stream. Bring bug spray and water.

LA CHIVA* From 997, turn into the FWS Refuge and go aprox 2 miles to VIEQUES FISH AND the end of the paved road. Pass the sign WILDLIFE REFUGE* ........................................................ for Caracas and continue straight on CARACAS* From 997, turn into the FWS the dirt road. La Chiva has numbered Refuge at the Sol Food truck. Go aprox 2 spots #1-21. At marker #13 the road miles to a sign for Caracas. Turn right and splits so stay right if you want to explore go aprox 1.5 more miles. No shade except La Chiva spots #16-21. for picnic gazebos in the grass area. Watch ........................................................ out for the sandburs! (see below). Be very LA PLATA* Follow directions to La Chiva but when road splits take left and go 0.5 careful where you step when you are in the grassy area and kids should wear their miles to reach La Plata. La Platita is the little neighboring beach. shoes down to the sand (or water’s edge).

PREVAILING WINDS: WINTER - EAST TO NORTHEAST SUMMER - SOUTHEAST Bas

tim

ent

o

Restricted Area Do not enter.

Public Use Allowed

Bahia Tapón

Puerto Ferro Bay

Car

Pla

Tre s yue

aca

s mit as la

Pat

La aP

Pal

rie

Chi

va

Ens ena da La Hon Pla da Esc ta ond ida

ta

THE MAP SHOWS PUBLIC AND RESTRICTED AREAS OF THE VIEQUES NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

FWS GATE CLOSES AUTOMATICALLY.

SH O ULD

B LE F T

BT W-S N

EL

ON

NORTH SHORE BEACHES

RK

E

MARCH 1 - AUG 31 7 AM - 7:30 PM

O

SEPT. 1 - FEB 28 7 AM - 6:30 PM

Public use allowed. Acceso al püblico permitido.

Do not enter. Explosive hazard.

No entre. Peligro de explosión.

SEA GLASS BEACH Drive into Isabel II

on 200 and make a left onto main street (Calle Muñoz Rivera). Almost at the end of the street you will see an intersection with a church on your right. Make a left here and at the next intersection make a right. Park on the street (not in the yellow!) and walk to the left of the gazebo down a path to the beach. ........................................................

LA CHATA Drive by the ferry on your left and go up the steep hill to the right of El Yaté Bar. Go by the lighthouse on your left and take the next right down a steep little hill. Curve to your left and follow along this shoreline road. Pass La Lanchita on left and drive aproximately 0.35 miles to a left turn onto a small dirt drive with two palms and large rocks at the end. La Chata! Keep your eyes open for sea glass. Don’t be surprised if you are swimming with horses! Many people come here to exercise them.

EL GALLITO Pass the W on 200 going west and look for a parking area and short peninsula on your right. The beach is on the right.

Great place to be at sunset! ........................................................

EL PARQUE CEIBA Go west on 201 approximatelyg 1 mile past the airport and follow the sharp curve to the right. Go down a small hill and the Ceiba tree is on your right.

Enjoy the Ceiba tree without climbing, marking or damaging the roots.

........................................................

ROMPEOLAS Follow directions to the

Ceiba tree but pass the Ceiba and continue on the main road to the left.Take the next right at the empty concrete structure with parking lot and this road will take you to the pier. Rompeolas pier is 1 mile long so it is great for beginning joggers or walkers! Great snorkeling on the left side of the pier but go with a guide. ........................................................

BLAYDIN BEACH OR MOSQUITO BEACH

Follow directions to the pier but right before going out onto the pier there is a small sandy road to the left that leads to a shallow beach.

There are lots of starfish here so be very careful where you step! ........................................................

PUNTA ARENAS Follow directions to Rompeolas but go past turn for pier and drive aproximately 2 miles. You will come to a sign that says you are entering FWS Refuge. Drive 1 mile and come to a T / there are spots to the left and to the right with the best snorkeling to your left. No-see-ums tend to come out in the afternoon so make it a morning excursion and bring your bug spray!

No-see-ums = sandflies that come out at sunset and they bite!

Cell Service at the Beach If you hire a publico to take you to the beaches remember to arrange a pick up time before they drive off because cell service may not be available.

Marinars prohibited from entering this area Se prohibe a los navegantes entrar a esta area Mariners are prohibited from anchoring, dredging, or trawling in this area. Se prohibe a los navegantes anclar, dragar o la pesca de arrastre en esta área.

Vieques has the highest number of public beaches of all the municipalities in Puerto Rico.

Beaches are in protected areas and are safe. Stay in the designated public areas.

Never enter restricted areas that are marked with extensive signage.

Practice 3Rs

Recognize, Retreat, Report

Practiques las 3Rs

Reconozca, Retroceda, Reporte 23

CAMPING ON VIEQUES

BY ROSIE DEMPSEY

On Vieques, there are three officially designated camping areas and all are located within the SunBay Balnearia (Beach Park) managed by the PR Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Camping is not permitted anywhere in the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge or at the Nature Reserve that surrounds the biobay.

Paid Camping

Primitive Camping. No Cost.

J SUNBAY -Camp sites at SunBay National Park include a view of the ocean and a mile stretch of sandy beach and turquois water.

The unfenced field to the right of the SunBay administrative building (as you face the shore) is the designated area to pitch tents. Camping is $10.00 per night and check-in/out is coordinated through the Reserve Manager Mr. Irraraza or other staff. There are open (no enclosure) outdoor showers and a public bathroom, but bring your own supplies and paper products. Currently, the fencing for the camping area is partially down, so horses roam in. Be careful where you pitch your tent! Do not feed or pet the horses, as some can get aggressive when food runs out.

No facilities: Be prepared to leave the beach without a trace.

The SunBay main gate off Rt 997 is open 24/7 and the entrance fee is $4.00 per vehicle, per day from 9am to 5pm. Walking in is free. If you arrive after administrative hours, you can set up in the designated area and pay the next day.

Located next to the administrative offices is Arenamar Café which is open Friday to Sunday for lunch, including vegetarian options.

J MEDIA LUNA -Media Luna has shaded camping areas along with a shelter or two up from the sandy beach. Look for entrances in the vegetation area or parking spots. They are first come first serve and may require a permit from the DNER Reserve Manager, but enforcement is not consistent, and neither is security. Reach Media Luna through the SunBay gate J EL CAYO -The land at the western end of SunBay is open for camping and is reached by car or on foot on an unmarked sandy road past the SunBay entrance as you head to Esperanza. The area connects to a sand bridge that comes and goes with the tide and leads to a loop hiking trail on Cayo Tierra.

The spacious sites are well spaced out. You can also reach the designated camping area by walking east from the longer pier on Esperanza Bay.

All camping areas require you to check in with the administrative offices of SunBay for a permit. They are open Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5 pm. Go straight in to SunBay (off Rt. 997). Instead of taking the first left to beaches on the often-bumpy sandy-gravel road, go straight to the walled parking area. The SunBay administrative offices are located on the left under the roofed plaza.

24

VQS 101

997

BioBay

The Green Store

Esperanza

that’s gotta hurt.

Arenamar Café SunBay Office El Cayo

Sunbay

Navio

Media Luna

Cayo Afuera

Cayo de Tierra

n Do not leave valuables in your tent. n Camping is NOT permitted on any of the beaches and areas of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.

so harassment or disturbance of these animals is prohibited. Dogs must be leashed at all times. Additional rules and regulations for the PR-DNER areas are posted. n No-see-ums or flying gnats come out at dusk.

Be ready with bug spray or long sleeves and pants!

n Food trucks are located across from and south of the n Many beaches are nest- gate to Sunbay and have ing grounds for protected delicious, authentic local and endangered sea turtles, food. Going a little farther,

Watch out!

for the Coast Sandbur very prevelant at many of the southside beaches and painful to step on.

(Cenchus incertus)

good to know

n Bon fires are NOT allowed on any of the beaches on Vieques but cooking on an open flame grill is allowed at the three camping areas.

oooh...

the Green Store/Tienda Verde is a local market that is well stocked with a variety of items, including food and beverages. It marks the edge of the Esperanza neighborhood with many restaurants along the Malecon.

EASTER: A local community tradition ties up camping areas by historic arrangement during the two to four weeks around Easter and non-residents should not expect to camp at that time.

Called abrojo de playa in Spanish, this sandbur is part of a 10-inch high, mat-forming grass that spreads in dense clumps often concealed by taller flora. The burs will stick to your feet and cause pain till you physically pull them off. Some form of footware is recommended when crossing through these areas to the ocean.

On the upside, their presence does help prevent beach erosion.

S E A S I DE MOR N I NG G L ORY (Ipomoea pres-caprae)

In Puerto Rico, this morning glory is called bejuco de playa or beach vine. The foliage contains natural antihistamines and the Carib Indians crushed and applied them to the stings of jellyfish, stingrays and insects to provide quick relief.

25

26

AJStetson.com

SW E E T P E R F EC T I O N

Make good choices!

LOCAL F L AV O R

What's your flavor?

PELATAS

LIMBERS

It might look like a popsicle but packs a punch of flavor! Made with fresh juice from the fruits of the island mixed with only a bit of water, this treat is pure joy on a stick. Here on Vieques you can sample flavors such as mango, coconut, tamarind, passionfruit and seagrape.

The limber, a frozen, fruity treat not unlike the stateside popsicle, was named in honor of Charles A. Lindbergh. He flew to Puerto Rico on his 26th birthday on Feb. 4 1928 and, after landing, was offered one. Served out of a plastic cup rather than on a stick, the limber offers endless flavor options made with local island fruit or fruit juice. It is a quintessentially refreshing frozen indulgence and is sold out of homes in almost every neighborhood of Vieques. But you have to know where to go! Hopefully, choosing your favorite flavor will be the toughest decision of your day.

How to eat a limber? Sqeeze the soft plastic cup and bite it from the top, or ask for a spoon if you must.

FIND THEM: The Family Market in Isabel II carries Paletas Don Lolo made right here on Vieques.

FIND IT: Sample limbers at the VER thrift store at the corner of Calle Muñoz Rivera and 200 in Isabel II. Look for the signs Hay Limbers at local houses.

VIEQUES HANDMADE ICE CREAM For delicious handmade ice cream you can’t get anywhere else on earth, visit D’Frozz in Isabel II. The ice cream freezer at the back is stocked with a rotating selection of scrumptious

VQS

flavors made right there on site!

Varieties like oatmeal, coffee and cornbread satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Felix Meléndez Estrada and Saika E. Morales Torres, the husband-wife team behind the shop, began making ice cream in 2016 opening D’Frozz in 2018. Taking inspiration from all sorts of desserts, the duo churns up new varieties all the time. And you won’t find any added sugars here — the fruit’s natural sugars are all the sweetness the ice cream needs. Nearly all flavors are free from preservatives and dyes, and if you order something tropical like malanga or parcha, chances are it’s made with locally grown ingredients.

FIND IT: at the corner of Calle Muñoz Rivera and Carlos Lebron in Isabel II.

mojito 10 FRESH MINT LEAVES

½ MEDIUM LIME, CUT INTO 3 WEDGES 2 TABLESPOONS WHITE SUGAR 1 ½ FLUID OUNCES OF CRAB ISLAND RUM ½ CUP CLUB SODA, OR AS NEEDED .....................

Muddle the lime juice, sugar and mint leaves in a container that won’t break or shatter while crushing the mint. Add the rum.

Pour into a tall glass and add ice.

Top up with soda water, garnish with mint and serve.

A BIG DECISION

ROBIN'S MOJITO BAR OFFERS A OZ. MOJITO! PICK A TROPICAL FLAVOR LIKE PASSION FRUIT, TAMARIND, COCONUT OR POMEGRANATE OR STICK WITH THE ORIGINAL!

32

DON'T FORGET TO ASK FOR CRAB ISLAND RUM FOR THE AUTHENTIC ISLAND COCKTAIL! 27

Flamboyan

BLOOMING SEASON JUNE THROUGH SEPTEMBER

Delonix Regia, also known as the royal Poinciana, is endemic to Madagascar and endangered in the wild but widely cultivated for its ornamental value. It is much loved in Puerto Rico and Vieques and has vivid red, orange or yellow flowers.

V

IE

R

rade Winds QUES,

P

Guest House open year round Restaurant open for Dinner & Brunch summer and winter

787-710-7440

www.tradewindsvieques.com

View menu:

Check our website or FB for current hours and activities join us for an

OpenTable experience!

28

®

f

@tradewindsvieques

la noche de San Juan

MANGO SAP SAGA

St. John’s Night

Can you smell the sweetness in the air? It’s mango season! But with all of that juicy goodness comes an acidic sap that can harm your skin and eyes. It’s called urushiol, and it’s the same chemical present in poison ivy and poison oak, just in a much smaller concentration. To avoid skin or eye burns when you’re picking mangoes, cut or snap them with a long stem and then wash them under cool running water. If you do find yourself with a mango-induced burn, apply an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and/or a grease-cutting dish soap. Over-the-counter anti-itch creams may provide some relief, but of course, see a doctor if the condition worsens or does not go away.

BY JOSÉ CARASQUILLO

It is La Noche de San Juan (St. John’s Night), a celebration observed by millions around the world at midnight between June 23rd and 24th. It is a Christian celebration of pagan origin. Catholics celebrate the birth of St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of Puerto Rico, on June 24th. It’s believed that on the eve of this day the waters are blessed with the power to cure diseases, cleanse the soul, drive evil spirits away and bring good luck. Generations of families, friends and visitors flock to the beaches to partake in what has become a cultural ritual.

When: June 23 at midnight How: Walk to the water’s edge around 11:55pm.

Turn yourself around and walk backwards into the water. When the water is around your waist, stop and wait until midnight. At midnight, plunge yourself backwards into the water three times in quick succession.

RIP CURRENTS

TIDES OF VIEQUES The tidal pattern of Vieques is known as semi divernal.

There is one high tide and one low tide which rarely exceeds one and a half feet. As a result the change does not influence water activities around the island except for fishing.

WELL THAT’S JUST SWELL

BY STEPHANIE VELAZQUEZ / SALTY SPIRIT

SUMMER HAPPENINGS

TOURIST SEASON = THANKSGIVING THROUGH EASTER

During spring and summer on Vieques, things tend to slow down, heat up and the island goes into

full bloom! www.tides4fishing.com is an excellent resource for current ocean conditions including tides, temperature, swell, fishing conditions and even UV exposure level!

Rip currents don’t just occur when there are big waves. The ocean may appear calm and spectacularly clear yet still be subject to dangerous rip currents. Unlike an undertow, rip currents don’t drag you vertically down or hold you under water. However, inexperienced swimmers may instinctively try to swim against the currents, which can cause exhaustion, panic, or worse.

Don’t worry — there are lots of measures you can take to avoid being caught in a rip current.

J Go on a snorkeling tour instead of snorkeling on your own.

J Be responsible and wear a lifejacket if you are not a strong swimmer.

J Verify the weather app for local ocean conditions and rip current advisories.

J Go in the ocean with a buddy or have someone watch over you from shore.

Let them know how long you plan to be in the water.

J Wear fins.

29

A PROGRAM BY NONPROFIT OUR BIG FAT CARIBBEAN RESCUE

SOMOS

Humane Education, Art, Theatre, Agriculture and more!

BY: L AU R I E M OS H E R

SOMOS, meaning together in English, is an afterschool program offering humane education, art, theater, agriculture, gardening, bee keeping and more to the youth of Vieques. Launched by the nonprofit Our Big Fat Caribbean Rescue, SOMOS also offers real world co-op experience to those students interested in vet tec clinic skills including digital customer assistance programs and small animal handling. These students get real life experience assisting OBRCR vet, Dr. Sam Shone during wellness and surgery days. During the week the Somos teacher, Ms. Letty brings the humane education curriculum into the island’s middle and high school classes. OBFCR firmly believes that advances made in Vieques regarding animal rights need to be supported and furthered by our students to ensure continued success in the future. To find out more information visit Club-SOMOS

FULL TRANSPARENT KAYAKS BIOLUMINESCENT BAY SNORKELING

www.tainoaquaadventures.com

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BY: SA R A H R OS E G I L L E S P I E

TENNIS

YO U T H

Academy for Vieques Youth In 2021, the Vieques Tennis Academy was born. The project was conceived by Jeamy Montes, a Vieques native who returned home to the island as an adult, bringing with him an uncontainable enthusiasm for tennis. To make it happen, he transformed an unused, rundown basketball court into a place where people of all ages can learn to love the sport as much as he does.

He hosts regular group classes for players ages five and up, and adults can book private lessons to learn the game or brush up on their skills. (Rackets are provided thanks to a generous donor.) Additional improvements, like a fence to keep the balls in and seating for parents and spectators, are next on the to-do list. To book a lesson or get more information, call Jeamy at 787-4352187 or visit Vieques Tenis on Facebook. If you’d like to support the project, contact Jeamy through https://www. facebook.com/vieques.tenis.1

31

milestones

a bit of history Want to know a bit more about Vieques?

Here’s a brief timeline to whet the appetite of the history buff in you.

J 2145 BCE Archeological findings in Puerto Ferro date back to Pre-Arawak period.

J 1100 CE Taino culture

abounds in Esperanza.

J 1493 Columbus lands on

the south side of Borinquen (now Puerto Rico) and claims it for Spain.

J 1816 Simón Bolivar, Latin America’s Great Liberator, comes to Vieques.

J 1822 The

Spanish commence construction of a town, eventually called Punta Mulas (Isabel II today), on the north side of the island.

J 1832 Teófilo José Jaime

María Le Guillou, a French emigre, is appointed military governor of Vieques.

J 1844 The municipal-

initiates colonization of Puerto Rico.

ity of Vieques is formally established; construction of original Catholic Church gets underway.

J 1514 Taíno Chiefs Yaurei-

J 1845 Construction of

J 1508 Ponce de León

bo and Cacimar from Bieke fight Spanish forces on the east side of Puerto Rico.

J 1683 British settlers from

Anguilla invade Vieques.

Danish forces from St. Thomas drive invaders away.

J 1698 Scottish settlers

from Nevis, Anguilla and Tortola invade Vieques.

Spanish forces drive invaders away.

J 1863 Britain formally renounces all claims to Vieques.

J 1873 Abolition of slavery

in Puerto Rico (March 22, 1873); Manuel E. Benitez is elected Vieques’ first mayor when municipalities are extended the right to vote.

Anguilla come to Vieques to establish a colony on two different occasions. Both times Spanish forces drive invaders away.

J 1811 The Spanish coloni-

J 1896 Punta Mulas

zation of Vieques begins.

J 1815 Royal Decree of

Graces allows other Europeans who swear loyalty to the Spanish Crown to remain in Puerto Rico. French settlers develop Vieques’ agrarian economy.

32

J 1899

Puerto Ferro lighthouse (south side) is completed.

lighthouse (north side) is completed.

J 1898 Spanish-American War. Treaty of Paris gives United States temporary control

J 1977 - 1988 “Vieques Pony Express”— Ventura Camacho Dávila is hired by the post office to initiate island-wide delivery of mail.

For the next 11 years, Ventura Camacho does his job on horseback.

J 1917 Jones Act grants United States Citizenship to all Puerto Ricans.

J 1925 On March 19, a

powerful earthquake causes major structural damages to the Puerto Ferro lighthouse.

The lighthouse is closed.

J 1978 “Fishermen’s War”: An international NATO backed training military exercise on Vieques is stopped by fishermen who position themselves in the direct line of fire.

J 1989 Hugo, since up-

Fortín Conde de Mirasol (the Fort) begins.

J 1893 All Saints Church is officially consecrated.

Vieques and Ponce were the first places in Puerto Rico under Spanish Monarchy allowed to set up non-Catholic churches.

J 1718 British settlers from

of Cuba and ownership of Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippine islands.

graded to a category 5 hurricane, devastates Vieques.

J 1941-49 The United States Navy expropriates nearly two thirds of Vieques for military maneuvers.

J 1948 Luis Muñoz Marín

becomes 1st democratically elected governor of Puerto Rico.

J 1952 Commonwealth of

Puerto Rico is established on July 25.

J 1961 The film Lord of the

Flies is shot in Vieques.

J 1965 Osvaldo “Val” Gonzalez-Duriex provides air transportation to Vieques and registers his enterprise as Vieques Air Link.

J 1976 Water from El Yunque (Puerto Rico’s rain forest) via underwater pipeline becomes the main water supply for Vieques.

J 1991 Restoration of Fortín Conde de Mirasol is completed.

J 1999 David Sanes is killed by a bomb from U.S. Navy military exercises. The tragic death serves as the catalyst for a peace protest that galvanizes all of Puerto Rico. The ‘Paz Para Vieques’ movement garners international support and becomes instrumental in pressuring the United States Navy to end military exercises on the island.

J 2001 Vi-

eques National Wildlife Refuge is established (3,100 acres on the western end of Vieques).

J 2003 U.S. Navy leaves Vieques; 14,573 acres of land on the east end are

added to the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge is operated under the U.S. Department of Interior and becomes the largest wildlife refuge in the Caribbean.

J 2005 U.S. Congress

designates parts of Vieques as a Superfund.

with Jorge Camacho, starts the Vieques Rondalla. JUNTOS begins Humane Education in schools.

J 2016 VCHT signs an agree-

ment with the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources to co-manage the Mosquito nature reserve.

J 2006 Montessori Educa-

tion arrives in Vieques; Guinness World Records names Mosquito Bay the brightest Bio-bay in the world; MANTA, the educational outreach program of the Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust (VCHT) wins EPA’s highest award two years in a row.

J 2007 Comunidad Verde Vieques is established. This is the first re-settlement inside former NAVY land.

J 2009 First Bio-luminescent

Symposium in Puerto Rico is held in Vieques and hosted by the VCHT. J 2011 White House report

issued by the Vieques Task Force recommends military clean-up, a solid waste strategy, health care, renewable energy, protection of the BioBay and “green” tourism.

J 2012 Vieques Concert Society (VCS), in partnership

J 2017

Hurricane Maria devastates Puerto Rico and Vieques with Category 5-force winds. Communication to the outside world is severed, and it takes 7 months to restore power. Numerous on- and off-island organizations form to provide help.

J 2019 The death of

13-year old Jai Ventura sparks island-wide grief and a peaceful protest (justiceparajai) about the Vieques hospital.

Destroyed in Hurricane Maria,

the hospital or CDT (Center for Diagnoses and Treatment) has not been rebuilt. Residents took signed cinderblocks to the town plaza to signify the need to rebuild. They remain in front of the municipal offices.

J 2019

The Covid-19 pandemic magnifies the island’s humanitarian crisis after the devastation of Hurricane Maria and several earthquakes. Fortunately, response to the virus is rapid and thorough and controls the spread.

J 2019-20

Puerto Rico experiences an unprecedented series of shock swarms. Over 9,000 earthquakes and aftershocks damage thousands of homes and buildings and closes schools.

Like many territories and cultures, Vieques has struggled to maintain its way of life. The many recorded histories of that struggle are, like the people of Vieques and Puerto Rico, filled with passion and persistence, and no shortage of perspectives.

Vieques Insider endeavors to provide as accurate a timeline of that history as is available through our research, while taking into consideration the discrepancies that exist among historians. Our timeline is in no way a comprehensive account, only a brief outline. We encourage our readers seeking a greater knowledge of Vieques to access all accounts of its history. To discover more about Vieques locally, please visit El Fortín Conde Mirasol and the Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust.

Today

At press time, Puerto Rico and Vieques are in a steady decline of Covid-19 cases and deaths.

Over 80% of the residents are vaccinated. Work begins on the Vieques hospital.

https://www.facebook.com/ArchivoHistoricodeVieques https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fort%C3%ADn-Condede-Mirasol/109510962408101 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSjNzRilCY4

By Rafeal Trelles

By Rafeal Trelles

>>>

33

TO LIVING BEAUTIFULLY VIEQUES ART & DESIGN FOR EVERY DAY.

Gallery & Events

at playa negra oro.vieques

oro vieques

FROM ARTISAN BEACHWEAR TO ART SUPPLIES 12-4/BY APPT. AT THE PLAYA NEGRA ENTRANCE

STAY WITH US ORITA ON AIRBNB 34

RESTAURANT GUIDE AURORA’S CHICKEN & GRILL 787-407-9067

For current hours be sure to check the restaurant guide on www.viequesinsider.com.

MON LUNES

TUES MARTES

WED MIERCOLES

THURS JUEVES

FRI VIERNES

SAT SABADO

11AM-4:45PM

11AM-4:45PM

11AM-4:45PM

11AM-4:45PM

11AM-4:45PM

11AM-4:45PM

11AM-10PM

11AM-10PM

11AM-10PM

11AM-10PM

11AM-4PM

BANANAS 787-354-0020 BEACH BAR AND GRILL

11AM-10PM

BIEKES BISTRO 787-435-9339

11AM-10PM

11AM-10PM

11AM-10PM

11AM-10PM

11AM-10PM

BUEN PROVECHO 787-529-7316

8AM-5PM

8AM-5PM

8AM-5PM

8AM-5PM

8AM-5PM

CARAMBOLA 787-741-3318 AT THE BLUE

7AM-3PM 5PM-10PM

7AM-3PM 5PM-10PM

7AM-3PM 5PM-10PM

7AM-3PM 5PM-10PM

7AM-3PM 5PM-10PM

7AM-2PM 5PM-10PM

11AM-10PM

11AM-10PM

11AM-10PM

11AM-10PM

11AM-10PM

5PM-9PM

5PM-9PM

5PM-9PM

5PM-9PM

12PM-8PM

12PM-8PM

12PM-8PM

CASA NATIVO 787-556-9920 COQUI FIRE CAFÉ 787-741-0401

5PM-9PM

CRAB ISLAND 787-934-8015 RUM DISTILLERY D'FROZZ 787-239-4081 FAMILY MARKET (*GROCERIES) FINCA VICTORIA

RES. REQIRED @ INFO@LAFINCA.COM

GONZOS GARDEN 787-435-2801

7AM-10PM

7AM-10PM

7AM-10PM

6AM-10PM

6AM-10PM

6AM-10PM

6AM-10PM

6AM-10PM

6AM-10PM

6AM-10PM

9:30-10:30AM

9:30-10:30AM

9:30-10:30AM

9:30-10:30

9:30-10:30 6PM AND 8PM

9:30-10:30

9:30-10:30

VEGAN DINNERS

BAR 5PM KITCHEN 6PM

BAR 5PM KITCHEN 6PM

8:30AM-1AM

8:30AM-1AM

MANGO PUBLIC HOUSE 939-891-2764

5PM-9:30PM

5PM-9:30PM

MARSHMALLOW’S 787- 930-2365

7AM-6PM

5PM-8PM BAR BBQ BY DEXTERS

8:30AM-1AM

7AM-6PM

5PM-10PM

RISING ROOST (GUAKE'TE)

1PM-8:00PM

12PM-8PM

12PM-8PM

12PM-8PM

8:30AM-1AM

8:30AM-2:00AM

8:30AM-2:00AM

8:30AM-1AM

5PM-9:30PM

5PM-9:30PM

5PM-9:30PM

7AM-6PM

7AM-6PM

7AM-6PM

5 PM-10PM

5PM-10PM

8AM-1PM 5PM-10PM

8AM-1PM 5PM-10PM

8AM-1PM

8AM-1PM

8AM-1PM

8AM-1PM

12:30 LAST SEATING

12:30 LAST SEATING

12:30 LAST SEATING

12:30 LAST SEATING

3PM-10PM

3PM-11PM

3PM-11PM

1PM-9PM

4PM-10PM

4PM-10PM

4PM-10PM

4PM-10PM

5:30PM-

5:30PM-

5:30PM-

5:30PM-

TAVERNA 787- 438-1100 1PM-8:00PM

BAR 5PM KITCHEN 6PM

8AM-1PM

4PM-10PM

787-710-7440

BAR 5PM KITCHEN 6PM

12:30 LAST SEATING

ROBIN’S BAR 787-231-8484

TRADEWINDS

7AM-2PM 5PM-10PM

7AM-10PM

LAZY JACKS 787-741-5555

ST VOODOO’S MAR AZUL

11AM-10PM

7AM-10PM

LA TABLA DEL CHEF 939-2084964

PLACITA @ EL BLOK 787-741-6020

SUN DOMINGO

1PM-8:00PM

1PM-8:00PM

9AM-2:0PM BRUNCH

Hours are subject to change. Please check www.viequesinsider.com/restaurant guide or the restaurant's facebook page for current hours.

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ACCOMODATIONS At the Waves Casa de Amistad Casa Colores Casa Corona Casa Coqui Verde Casa Fuerte Casa Oceana Casa Tesero EcoCasa El Blok Encantada Finca Victoria Hix Island House Lazy Jacks Hostel Lazy Jacks Guesthouse La Lanchita

Malecon House Orita SeaGate SoliMar Guest Studios Suenos del Mar (Fajardo, PR) The Inn on the Blue The Haven Tradewinds Guesthouse The Vieques Guesthouse Villa Dos Palmas

on Facebook 787-247-1017 717-578-4893 on Facebook 787-477-5182 802-272-0704 on Facebook on Facebook 617-335-4863 787-741-6020 on facebook 787-646-0011 787-435-4590 787.741.1447 787.741-1447 845-891--1502 800-774-4717 939-239-7113 510-682-3064 201-450-8238 787-980-8717 787-435-0221 787-741-3318 on Facebook 787-672-9927 787.435.1513 802-272-0704

ACCOUNTANT Victor Simmons AGRICULTURE Arte Tropical Finca Consciencia Isla Nena Composta JaFlor La Colmena Cimarrona Extensión Agrícola

787-936-7496 787-925-8345 787-502-4088 787-309-8408 267-968-4197 787-502-4088 787-765-8000 x3921

AIRLINES Aerotaxi Charters Air Flamenco Air Sunshine Cape Air M&N Aviation Vieques Air Link

787-718-8869 787-724-1818 954-434-8900 800-227-3247 787-791-7090 888-901-9247

ARCHITECTS Arquitecto Stanley Hutchinson

787-556-5537

ART GALLERIES/LESSONS/ARTISTS Carmen Lund / Painting Classes 203.444.1806 Art Vault /Ernesto Peña 939-248-7200 Fuerte Conde Mirasol 787-375-0525 Oro Vieques 510-682-3064 Kadosh Art Gallery 787-371-8390 Linda Castren 828-243-2565 Lucky One Designs 787-223-8203 Luna Loca 843-271-1910 Sandra Reyes 939-488-6734 Siddhia Hutchinson Glen Wielgus Gallery 787-556-5409 Vieques Historical Trust 787-741-8850 BEE REMOVAL Apiario Bieke

787-312-5848

BIKE TOURS/RENTAL Black Beard Sports Bieque Eco Trips JAK Water Sports Fun Brothers Vieques Cycles

939-238-6841 787-922-2701 787-644-7112 787-435-9372 787-435-2249

Biobay tours Abes Bieque Eco Trips Blackbeard Sports Fun Brothers Isla Nena Bio Bay Tours (boat) Jak Water Sports Salty Spirit

787-435-1362 787-922-2701 939-283-6841 787-435-9337 787-403-5581 787-644-7112 787-477-8664

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Taino CAMPING Sun Bay

787-349-6964 787-741-5000

CAR RENTAL / AUTOMOTIVE Fun Brothers 787-435-9372 Maritza’s Car Rental 787-741-0078, 500-1666 Scooters for Rent 939-437-2053 CATERERS Cocina de Vicente La Tabla del Chef Your Personal Chef (Waldo) Titi Tata’s Kitchen

787-232-7386 939-208-4964 787-487-4244 787.450.6565

CONSTRUCTION/HANDYMAN Centro Commercial Florida 787-741-2571 EDK Design Services 787-435-3548 Enid Medina 787-308-8501 Ferreteria Victoria 787-741-3061 Isla Nena Renovations 787-233-1560 M&M of Vieques 787-741-2577 Navarro Construction 787-741-2577 Rosas Depot 787-741-1307 Tony’s Painting 787-602-8359 Tony Handyman 787-556-9941 Vieques Locksmith 787-564-5120 DERMATOLOGIST Elena Nogales

787-860-4500

ELECTRICIANS High Quality Electrical Contractor

787-446-6063

ELECTRONICS/PHONE ACCESSORIES

Fire Fi 619-708-1444/787-435-2024 Quiñones Electronics 787-741-2427 Equipment rental Bieque Eco Trips Blackbeard Sports Fun Brothers Jak Water Sports

787-922-2701 939-283-6841 787-435-9337 787-644-7112

EXTERMINATORS AAA Pest Control Isla Nena Exterminating Professional Exterminating

939-777-4917 787-310-1363 787-449-6950

fishing Abes 787-435-1362 Amity Charters 787-502-3839 Bieque Ecotours 787-922-2701 El Pescador Fishing & Marine Store 787-231-2624 Salty Spirit 787-477-8664

LANDSCAPING Anchor Landscaping

787-479-5801

LAUNDROMAT Isla Nena Laundromat

787-435-5615

LIQUOR Crab Island Rum Distillery Family Market

787-934-8015

MASSAGE Ayurvedic Wellness at Finca Victoria 787-646-0011 Beatriz Beauty Boutique & Spa 787 556 8662 Rising Dawn 248-470-5495 (Tanya)

939-389-5556 (Pamela) Serenity Point Yoga & Wellness facebook Vieques Massage Ingrid Bergman 787-435-1313 MATERNITY/MIDWIFE Komdrona Birth & Bienstar MUSEUMS Forte Conde Mirasol Vieques Historical & Conservation Trust PaddleBoard Abes Blackbeard Sports Jak Water Sports Nauti Mermaid Wai Vie PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO E.P. Anderson Photography Daniel Fernández Photography

919-244-1537 787-375-0525 787-741-8850 787-435-1362 939-283-6841 787-644-7112 754-216-8168

971-605-9406 323-578-5788

PHYSICIANS/MEDICAL SERVICES ASSMCA 787-741-4767 Behavioral Health Care 888-440-8787 Centro Quiropráctico 787-741-0414 Consejería Psicológica 787-547-9467 Dra. Daphne Torres (Dentista) 787-741-1916 Farmacia San Antonio 787-741-8397 Dra. Ivette Perez 787-468-2000 Dr. José Figueroa 787-223-1687, 787-366-1931 Dra. Fanny Garraton (dentist) 787-741-8765 Health Pro Med 787-468-2000 Hospicio 800-981-0054 Dr. Luis Rivera 787-718-2250 Vieques CDT 787-685-3960, 787-741-0398 POOL MAINTENANCE Pool Spa Tech Services

787-506-4898

PUBLICOS/TAXIS Alejito Bermúdez 939-261-785, 787-309-6463 Angel Hernandez 787-425-3919 Angel 787-243-2564

or 939-224-2773 Angie Chauffeur 787-455-4596 Cocolo (late night) 787-328-3940 Danny (Pinita) 787-556-9623

FLOWERS/PLANTS Green Eyed Girl Weddings Roses Luxury

971-506-9406 787-368-5884

GROCERY Family Market

787-968-3130

HARDWARE STORE Rosa's Depot

787-741-1307

HIKING TOURS Black Beard Sports

787-966-7450

HORSEBACK RIDING Esperanza Riding Jurutungo Farm Sea Gate Hotel

787-435-0073 215-692-7374 201-450-8238

INTERNET FireFi

939-239-3871

Juan Carmona Kalet Pérez Marilisa Taxi Miguel Ayala Tata Robles

Kayak tours Abes Bieque Eco Trips Jak Water Sports

787-435-1362 787-922-2701 787-644-7112

Ruben 787-436-0006 Vieques Taxi 787-741-TAXI 8294 Vieques Tours & Transportation 787-397-2048

Diego Quiñones Esteban Carle (Tebín) Esteban Ortiz (Tolo) Freddi Gabriel Cordero Hector (Tito) Heraldo Pérez José Felix (Cheo)

787-590-7068 787-486-1145 787-435-9608 787-672-9264 787-245-7068 787-219-3899 787-710-6667 787-486-9202

Letty Perez/Kiany Tours M&M Taxi

787-556-6003 939-208-1600

787-645-2329 787-585-9560 787-981-8023 787-328-3940 787-486-0267

PUBLICOS/TAXIS Puerto Rico Publicos (Ceiba and San Juan area) CR Transportation (Puerto Rico) 787-614-8874 Julian Transfers 787-887-5957, 787-385-7604 Daniel Rivera 787-239-4300/ 787-398-0231 Als taxi 787-590-9001 Efrain Ortiz 787-225-4944 John’s Publico 787-354-5851 John Rosario 787-354-5851 José Segura 939-272-1968 Angelito 939-224-2760 Julian 787-245-6145 Palma’s Transportation /Jay 787-627-8264 Tuty 787-380-3007 Hernan Nieves 787-674-0984

SHOPPING Atrevida at El Blok Bazar la Caridad (thrift) Dulce Mango Finca Victoria Luna Loca MamaPlaya Himalaya Muebleria Quiñones Oro Quiñones Electronics Rosas Depot Scallywags Trade Winds Gift Shop VCHT Gift Shop Vieques Gifts

PUBLICATIONS /PRINTING Imprenta Adonai 787-741-2856 Vieques Insider Magazine 787-435-3172 Viequestravel.com 212-462-2900

SIGHTSEEING TOURS Bieque Eco Trips Black Beard Sports Vieques Island Tours &Transport.

Beach Hop VQS Island Tours

REAL ESTATE Bravos Boyz

Colibrí Realty Island Real Estate

Paraiso Realty Rainbow Realty Broker Marin Broker Wetherby RESTAURANTS & BARS Aurora’s Chicken & Grill Bananas Biekes Bistro Buen Provecho Carambola at The Blue Casa Nativo Coquí Fire D'Frozz Don Tito’s Lechon Finca Victoria La Tabla del Chef Lazy Jacks Mango Public House Marshmallows Rising Roost (Guake'te) St. Voodoo’s Mar Azul Pescaderia/Fish Market Placita @ El Blok Robin’s Mojito Bar Taverna Trade Winds Restaurant

787-550-6913 787-550-6917 845-430-7479 787-458-7997 787-334-2943 787-741-7001 787-900-8909 787-741-4312 787-225-5604 787-380-4990 787-407-9067 787-354-0020 787-435-9339 787-529-7316 787-741-3318 787-556-9920 787-741-0401 787-741-2898 787-741-0495 939-208-4964 787-741-1447 939-891-2764 787-930-2365 on Facebook on Facebook 787-349-8660 787-741-6020 787-231-8484 787-438-1100 787-710-7440

sailing Ahoy Vieques Sailing Charters

939-332-5778

scuba Blackbeard Sports

939-283-6841

SERVICES Alcoholics Anonymous 787-380-4990

787-741-0639 Alanon 787-309-0798 Edwin appliance repair 787-209-1709 Francisco washer/dryer repair 787-209-0059 Narcotics Anonymous 508-873-4576 Isla Nena Exterminating 787-310-1363 Fire Fi 619-708-1444/787-435-2024 Gofers 787-220-0943 Marc Weems Locksmith 787-564-5120 Recycling 787-741-5000 x2351 Tony’s Painting 787-602-8359 Upholstery NorthStar Canvas 945-882-8229 Vieques Gas 787-741-2551 WASPR,Inc. 939-717-2121 WE Island Solutions (Property Mgnt.) 787-435-8832 Vieques Tech Services 858-337-3116

787-741-6020 787-590-8575 787-646-0011 803-292-3862 787-548-1010 787-400-4004 510-682-3064 787-741-2427 787-741-1307 787-966-7540 787-741-8666 787-741-8850 787-435-1244 787-922-2701 939-238-6841 787-397-2048 787-397-2048

snorkel/Snorkel Boat (B) Tours Abes (B) 787-435-1362 Blackbeard Sports (B) 939-283-6841 Bieque Eco Trips (B) 787-922-2701 Crystal Clear Vieques 787-242-1071 Fun Brothers 787-435-9337 Jak Water Sports (B) 787-644-7112 Nauti Mermaid (luxury B) 754-216-8168 Salty Spirit (B) 787-477-8664 Taino (B) 787-349-6964 SPA/SALON/ESTHETICIAN Beatriz Beauty Boutique & Spa 787 556 8662 Finca Victoria 787-646-0011 TOWING Alex Armando Chepo Towing Freddy Josaen Maldonado

939-238-9033 787-644-1139 787-966-3985 787-608-9914 939-247-9825

TRANSPORT Island Services & Management Tranka Transport

787-238-9108 939-475-0687

VET Vieques Humane Society

787-741-0209

WEDDING/EVENT PLANNERS Eva Bolivar 787-402-0357 Green Eyed Girl Weddings 971-506-9406 YOGA / LIFECOACHING Ayurveda Esperanza Yoga w/Valerie Serenity Point Yoga Vieques Pilates, Yoga & Wellness

MUNICIPAL / GOV. AGENCIES / PUBLIC SERVICE Banco Popular 787-741-7117 City Hall/Alcaldía 787-741-5000 Sun Bay 787-741-8198 US Fish and Wildlife Office 787-741-2138 Recycling Office 787-741-5000 Post Office 787-741-3891 PR Tourism Office Vieques Airport 787-741-2300 Isabel II 787-741-0800 AAA Autoridad de Acueductos 787-741-2001 FWS 787-741-2138 Vieques Post Office 202-791-7632 Vieques Gas 787-469-7734 Vieques Covid Hotline 787-340-3837 Non Profits Alapas 787-565-2717 Apiario Bieke 787-312-5848 Atta 787-930-2365 Boys & Girls Club 787-728-4040 Corefi 787-905-6946 Fantasia Caribena De Vieques 787-435-2288 Fe Que Transforma 787-308-5659 Hooves On The Ground 305-898-3574 Hopebuilders 239-633-2700 Incubator Bieke Micro, Inc. 787-206-0602 Isla Nena Composta 787-309-8408 Juntos 787-556-9030 Colmena Cimarrona 787) 502-4088 OBFCR 787) 349-8480 Parque La Ceiba 787-467-4352 Rotary Club Of Vieques 347-366-2211 Sail Relief Team 202-680-8879 Navy League Vieques 703-528-1775 Ticatove 787-428-8288 Vieques Concert Society 787-225-5604 Vieques Tenis 787-435-2187 VCHT 787-741-8850 Vieques Emergency Response Inc 787-901-7500 Vieques En Rescate, Inc. 787-408-7161 VHS 787.741.0209 Vieques Island Animal Sanctuary787-435-4306 ViequesLove 787-556-8731 EMERGENCY

Ambulance 787-741-8261/911 Hospital 787-741-3282 Emergency 787-741-8261 or 911 Fire Dept 787-741-2111 Police 787-741-2020 Municipal Office 787-741-5000

787-741-5051, 939-239-4164

970-729-0505 508-945-7643 on Facebook 231-383-1885

AA Alcoholics Anonymous Monday Vieques Conservation Trust Meeting Room Tuesday Vieques Conservation Trust Meeting Room Wednesday Catholic Church Rectory (bilingual) Thursday Beach Meeting Playa Gallito Friday Catholic Church Rectory (bilingual) Saturday Catholic Church Rectory Sunday Women's Discussion Ceiba Tree Sunday Catholic Church Rectory

5:00pm 5:00pm 5:00pm 8:30pm 5:00pm 10:30am 8:00am 10:30am

CONTACT: LIN 787-380-4990 OR DOTTI 787-741-0639

Alanon- for the family dealing with any substance abuse Wed Call Lynn for location 787-309-0798

9:30am

NA Narcotics Anonymous Thursday Catholic Church Rectory

5pm

CONTACT KERRY 917-834-3509 OR DOTTI 787-741-0639

The phone directory includes advertisers and services. If you wish to be included or would like to update your number please email kelly@viequesinsider.com. A more complete phone directory is listed on our website. www.viequesinsider.com.

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“Whatever goal or dream you may have, fight for it.

Seize opportunities when they present themselves, and don’t let challenges get in the way.”

AJStetson.com

S 38

YO U T H

S

R O N DA L L A D E V I E Q U E S

A DREAM OF PERSERVERANCE VIEQUES YOUTH PRESERVING PUERTO RICO'S NATIONAL INSTRUMENT BY: DAP H N E VOS B E R G A L DAN A

S

imply strolling through the streets of Vieques on any given Sunday evening exposes one to an audiophonic tour of the wide array of musíca caribeña enjoyed throughout Puerto Rico. From the swooning two-step of Bachata to the spicy brass blare of Merengue to the fancy footwork of Salsa – and how could we forget the deep, soul-blasting bass of dancehall and reggaeton – one can’t help but move their hips. A genre of music perhaps more foreign to the untrained ear are the classical tunes of the Puerto Rican cuatro.

The national instrument of Puerto Rico, the cuatro puertorriqueño has five doublestrings and can be likened to a small guitar and played similarly. It hails its roots from the folk culture of the island countryside during the early centuries of Spanish influence. True to its effect, a good cuatro rondalla or “serenade” is sure to take one back to simpler times.

Emil García, a Viequense youth, took up the cuatro when he was just 8-years-old. Now at 17, he can say he’s traveled the western-hemisphere performing with La Rondalla de Vieques. “I played sports as a kid, and I was just looking to do something different. I saw my uncle playing the cuatro and it inspired me.” From then on, he attended cuatro lessons every Sunday when instructor Jorge Camacho Burgos and his wife commuted to Vieques every week.

Camacho founded La Rondalla de Humacao in 1984 and then the La Rondalla de Vieques in 2012, sponsored by the Vieques Concert Society, to “promote, preserve and proliferate” classical Puerto Rican music and specifically, the cuatro. Since then, he’s instructed hundreds of youths

ranging from 6-years-old to university age to master the instrument and enlighten the world with its melodies.

Prior to the pandemic, the group traveled all over the archipelago playing in different towns for events and festivals, and of course, parrandas or street caroling during Christmas time. This presented a great opportunity for kids from Vieques to get to know the main island, though it wasn’t always easy or possible for everyone due to transportation and logistical challenges. They were even granted the privilege to play with the Puerto Rican symphony on numerous occasions. Outside of Puerto Rico, García has traveled with the Rondalla to other Latin American countries including Peru, Colombia and Panama, and to the continental U.S. in major cities such as Chicago, though he says his favorite place thus far is Cuba.

“I love the feeling I get when I can really play a song,” García relates, “and when we perform, I love feeling the energy of the crowd.” The young

musician tells me it took him about 3-4 years of practice before he felt comfortable playing in front of people. “The pandemic really changed everything and set us back a lot” he says. However, when in-person lessons were no longer possible, virtual classes were available to the students, which gave them to opportunity to practice their craft.

As Puerto Rico and the rest of the world open up for travel and social events, García looks forward to the communion of in-person classes and the thrill of performing once more. After this school year, he will be off to university where he hopes to major in sound engineering.

39

“Music is for life," he shares. "Though I don’t plan on becoming a professional musician, I will take the experiences I’ve gained with me everywhere.” When I ask him what advice he has for other youth in Vieques he doesn’t hesitate. “Whatever goal or dream you may have, fight for it.

Seize opportunities when they present themselves, and don’t let challenges get in the way.”

Board member Gustavo Marín, and the founders of the Vieques Concert Society Annette Bou, Kevin Duncan, Donald Montgomery and Mireya Padin are thrilled that the organization has continued since its inception in 2010. Marín says, “It has been our mission to keep these opportunities available to the children and youth of Vieques, and we are so pleased we’ve been able to do so, even post-Maria and Covid. We’ve had 12 youth from Vieques venture to college, and we really feel that the Rondalla has opened many doors for them. Additionally, the travel opportunities and social experiences for the group have been extraordinary”. n To learn more about La Rondalla de Vieques and the Vieques Concert Society, you can visit www.viequesconcertsociety.org.

For interested students or parents, please contact Gustavo Marín at gustavo@viequesconcertsociety.orgConcert Society to support.

casa Tesero

h esperanza pool home wiTh roofTop ocean views. comforTable luxury jusT sTeps from The malecon.

The quatro is Puerto Rico's national instrument. The original cuatro (meaning four) had 4 strings usually made from animal guts. The modern day Cuatro has 5 sets of double strings.

casa corona h pool casiTa wiTh incomparable views. privaTe, convenienT locaTion.

WWW.VIEQUES.PROPERTIES INFO@CASACORONAVIEQUES.COM

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Fantasia Caribeña representing Vieques in the NYC Puerto Rican Day parade and events in the Caribbean. Find out how to support on facebook Fantasia-Caribeña-de-Vieques.

satos and gatos in good hands at the Vieques Humane Society

BY MARY ANNE MATHER

A Vieques vacation promises sunny beaches, sandy toes and something extra. You’ll encounter friendly (and often hungry) dogs and cats on streets, beaches and near hotels and restaurants. These highly intelligent, friendly and often needy furry friends know just how to reach out with an irresistible spirit you can’t help but notice. They make excellent, loving and loyal companions, so get ready to fall in love!

In spite of their endearing qualities, many dogs and cats are homeless, with few prospects of finding homes on a small island. But there’s hope. All are in good hands once they arrive at Vieques Humane Society & Animal Rescue (VHS)! VHS is our island’s only open-admission shelter and low-cost (sometimes free!) veterinary clinic with regular service hours. For 30+ years, VHS brings essential animal welfare services to our island. Thanks to donors and supporters, satos and gatos are found, fed, vetted, safe and on their way to forever homes. Come spend time with the animals Thurs-Sat 8am-noon at the shelter on Rt. 200 km 1.4 in Santa Maria. They LOVE the company! n viequeshumanesociety.org 787-741-0209

/viequeshumanesociety /viequeshumanesocietypr

Sato = Puerto Rican slang for a mutt or mixed-breed dog Gato = Spanish for cat 41

crystalclearvieques.com crystalclearvieques.com crystalclearvieques.com

crystalclearvieques.com

The magestic ceiba, over 350 years old, welcomes visitors to Parque La Ceiba de Vieques, an area teeming with life and critical ecosystems. She is the guardian of numerous species teetering on the verge of extinction while she herself is in need of protection.

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AJStetson.com

PA R Q U E LA CEIBA

Cuidando Mis Raices

CARING FOR MY ROOTS

BY CARMEN CRISTINA PALMER, ARDELLE FERRER AND TOM O'GRADY

On

Vieques, where trees dominate this tiny patch of sand in the ocean, a single tree continues to reach out to islanders and visitors alike for over 350 years. The Ceiba tree stands mystically and defiantly with outstretched arms to welcome people to a special place. It’s a massive tropical tree with deep ridges and spikes on its elephant-skin bark. Wall-like roots of up to ten feet tall extend outward from the main trunk, creating alcoves that serve as receptacles for water and shelter for the myriad species living in the Ceiba’s shade.

The tree bears large seed pods - kapoks which contain silky floss used in the past to line many a pillow with their soft texture. The Ceiba is native to tropical and sub-tropical areas and plays an important part in the mythologies of pre-Columbian Mesoamerican cultures. It’s believed that Opias, the spirits of their ancestors, live in the tree, and that it connects the planes of the underworld and the sky with that of the terrestrial realm.

On Vieques, the Ceiba tree is a metaphorical embodiment of the indigenous Taino people and their desire to find a physical and spiritual balance in life. It’s

also a fitting gateway icon for a greater story of preservation in the area that surrounds it, an ecologically sensitive piece of the island in need of protection. Like the tree, Parque La Ceiba De Vieques is inextricably part of a land and sea ecosystem that defines Vieques and places like it on a planet fighting for its life so we can live ours. Intertwined is a cultural and spiritual richness born of the island people that calls out for nurture and well-being.

The twin stories are equal chambers in the beating heart of Vieques.

Currently proposed as a National Natural Reserve, Parque La Ceiba De Vieques sits on the northwest side of the island between the east side of Mosquito Pier and El Gallito Beach.The area encompasses 51 acres of land and sea teeming with life, some teetering daily on the edge of extinction. There are innumerable macro and micro ecosystems of marine life in and around the protected municipal natural reserve deemed critical wetland and seagrass beds by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. A reef system just north of the park, vital to the entire coast, includes Acropora Palmatta and A. Cervicornis - live corals on the list 43

crystalclearvieques crystalclearvieques.com

If you visit the Park, you’ll see concrete benches with five other threatened species - and an extensive placed in a circle around the base of the Ceiba tree. spread of Gorgonia Flabellum sea fans. Inside, the sandy In the spirit of native cultures, you might stop for a beaches are a nesting area for Pejeblanco (Green Turmoment before entering the circle and ask permission tle), Tinglar (Leather Back) and Carey (Hawksbill) sea turtles, while the crystalline waters nurture a population to enter her shade. Then take time to notice the bright green stretch marks on her roots. They are signs of of West Indian manatees. Migratory birds, including recent growth, a regeneration occurring since her battle Brown Pelicans and Seagulls dive into the water to fish and feast. Under the water, the undulating seagrass prai- with the winds of 2017’s Category 5 Hurricane Maria, which laid low the island of Vieques. They portend danries are the largest of all the archipelago of Puerto Rico gers ahead, but they give us hope that nature balances and home to sea cucumbers, a myriad of fish and crabs. itself over time when left alone. But nature is not alone: For the human species, there are spots for activities such it includes us, and we are forever disturbing the balance. as diving, snorkeling and surfing, and for discovery at The efforts of La Ceiba Community Project, supported the Punta Caballo archaeological site. by all of us, offer a chance to contribute to that balance It’s all at risk. in a good way.

Through the efforts of non-profit La Ceiba CommuArdelle Ferrer, director of the conservation project nity Project, the area was granted the status of Municipal and one of the founders of the park, placed her hands Patrimony and Natural Reserve in 2020. Currently, the on the base of the tree over 15 years ago in a quiet Project founders are working with support from Vieques moment of connection. She Mayor Junito Corcino and made a promise to care for Senator Marissa Jimenez Sanand protect it, not yet realiztoni to elevate the Park status ing it was just the beginning by creating a Law declaring of a larger community effort it a Puerto Rico Natural involving many people in a Reserve. collective spirit continue to Wonderfully, Parque La fulfill that promise on behalf Ceiba De Vieques has become of the people of Vieques and part of island life. Since its future generations, caring for creation, families gather for an and educating ourselves about annual festival around the Ceithe Park and other natural and ba tree - lovingly called Abuela wild places, we can follow her (Grandmother) - to play traand the model of the Ceiba, ditional games, including spinlearning to be resilient, creative ning tops, shooting marbles, Project founders are working and artful in our intertwined lives. n playing jacks and tug of war. Perhaps with support from Vieques the area’s designation has connected the Mayor Junito Corcino and land, sea and people in a way the ancient Senator Marissa Jimenez For more information please call (787) Tainos understood clearly.

467-4352.

Santoni to elevate the 51 acre

Park status by creating a law declaring it a Puerto Rico Natural Reserve.

44

www.ajstetson.com

THE NECTAR FESTIVAL

DID YOU KNOW? The axis of the park is a centenary tree of Ceiba (Ceiba Pentandra), whose age is estimated between 375 and 400 years. This specimen of the national tree of Puerto Rico has been included in the list of the ten most important and long-lived Ceibas of Puerto Rico.

If you are lucky, your visit might correspond with the blooming of the Ceiba tree. She blooms every 2 to 3 years in an other-wordly display of interspecies love involving bees, hummingbirds, bats and more. One protector of the Ceiba has coined the opening of the buds as “the nectar festival”. In February of this year, many island visitors and locals were privileged to gather below the Ceiba’s branches at dusk to watch the peachy pink blooms open before their eyes. The blooming, similar to witnessing a video time lapse, is a carefully orchestrated natural process that takes place with the help of a host of buzzing bees who coax the tight round blooms to open, petal by petal, ultimately revealing the 5 male and 1 female pistols for which the Ceiba Petandra is named.

The best way to see Vieques.

Scenic trail rides that

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include Playa Negra, Playa Cocal and the Esperanza Ridge.

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Vie q ue s BIG G EST Mo ji t o !

32 o u n c e !

(787) 231-8484 robinsmojitobar.grill Esperanza, Calle 996 Flamboyan

Biobay Kayaking Snorkeling Paddle boarding Private Tours

Vieques Island

Tours & TransporTaTion

Sightseeing and cultural tours through the eyes of a local.

787-397-2048 vqstours@gmail.com

Online booking • abessnorkeling.com (787) 435-1362 46

Don’t settle for just seeing the island -

get to know it!

Kelly Thompson

Mark Marttin Bras

Karl Alexander

BIO BAY THE BUZZ

OUR AMAZING BIOBAY BY: M ARK MA RTIN BR A S AND LIR IO M AR Q U EZ

T

bay’s primordial soup is perfect, with just the right mixture here are few places in the world that classify as of salinity, temperature, nutrients and other components bioluminescent bays. Puerto Mosquito, Vieques’ yet to be revealed. bioluminescent bay, is considered by many to be one of the hidden wonders of the world, having been declared PROTECTORS OF THE BAY the brightest in the world by Guinness World Records. The Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust protects the experience of taking a guided tour should absolutely not BioBay with ongoing research specifically focused on be missed if you are visiting. It is an experience that will the bioluminescence levels and dinoflagellate concentrastay with you a lifetime. tion. As a community organization, VCHT also The magic of the Biobay is created by single provides educational support for the youth in cell organisms called Pyrodinium bahamense the area through its MANTA and The Wizards (whirling fire of the Bahamas), a type of luminesof Nature programs. Year-round outreach to all cent dinoflagellate. This single cell microscopic local schools bridges deficiencies/gaps of the plankton is able to convert chemical energy into government educational system in the area of light energy by synthesizing luciferin which, when sciences with non-formal environmental edumixed with the enzyme luciferase, plus oxygen, cation which includes field research, citizen’s produces a bluish-green light. The glow is science and outreach. thought to be a defense mechanism. At press In 2017, Hurricane Maria Biobay tour operators and guides play a time the concentration of dinoflagellates in the inflicted massive damage crucial role in protecting the bay and ensuring bay to date was 113,142 per liter. The concentrato the mangroves at the mouth of the bay putting on a daily basis that visitors do not impact the tion varies over time and even at a fraction of the narrow opening which bay in a negative way. They are the nightly that concentration, the Biobay bedazzles. traps dinoflagellates guardians of this treasure as well as your There are several conditions that make in danger of widening. escort to experience nature as you have never Mosquito Bay the ideal environment for the Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust seen her before. Continued research, educadinoflagellates to exist in higher concenimmediately designed tion and environmental consciousness have trations than anywhere else in the world. A and implemented the led to cooperative collaboration between majestic mangrove forest, seagrass beds, a Mangrove Project with the operators and guides and the VCHT and coral reef and neighboring lagoons have comthe goal of growing and DNER. They are working together to ensure bined to create and protect one of the most reforesting 6,000 new mangroves to replace the bay continues to glow. delicate and unique ecosystems on earth. The what had been destroyed.

The relationship between dinoflagellates lucky location and formation of the bay are This is a massive project and humans is a delicate one, requiring key factors. A narrow, shallow mouth traps but there are ways that diligent attention to the conservation of the the water inside and keeps the high concenyou can help. Support our efforts to protect this Biobay while sharing its beauty with our visitration of dinoflagellates from being washed natural wonder by tors. It is our hope that all locals and visitors out of the bay. The prevailing winds blowing visiting VCHT.org. will embrace this challenge for current and east to west across the mouth of the bay also future generations. n keep the organisms inside. The specific water quality that makes up the secret recipe of the

47

er vice Full S

Salon and Spa. Bo ok no w . You deser v e it.

787-556-8662 facebook.com/thenewspa

Boutique hotel across from the beachside boardwalk in the charming seaside village of Esperanza.

939-239-7113

48

info@maleconhouse.com

www.maleconhouse.com

They need us – and we need you.

Find out how you can help.

Visit viequeshumanesociety.org to donate, learn more about fostering, flying animals to their forever homes and a wish list of items needed at the shelter.

Book your snorkel adventure now!

Check out what you’ll see @crystalclearvieques

COME VISIT & MEET THE ANIMALS! TUES - WED 8am - 5pm (clinic appointments) /viequeshumanesociety /viequeshumanesocietypr viequeshumanesociety.org hello@viequeshumanesociety.org

THURS - SAT 8am - 12pm CLOSED Sun - Mon

787-741-0209

Rt. 200 km 1.4 Santa Maria

Snorkeling Tours

Your snorkel tour financially supports our diseased coral treatment work - the island’s only!

787.242.1071 www.crystalclearvieques.com 49

50

Daniel Fernandez

Kelly Thompson

AJStetson.com Kelly Thompson

Kelly Thompson

Daniel Fernandez

Daniel Fernandez

Kelly Thompson

ON THE WA T E R

GIFTS FROM THE SEA THE

VIEQUES

FISHERMEN

B Y : C A P T. T O M K I R K B R I G H T

M

ost visitors arrive on Vieques seeking relief from alarm clocks, household chores and all the annoying redundancies of daily life. After a few days of frolicking on the amazing white sand beaches, being dazzled on a tour of the magical bioluminescent bay and experiencing the pulse of the Island, they come to a realization. The true charm of Vieques is most evident in its people, food and culture.

The waters surrounding Vieques are crystal clear, with plentiful beds of healthy seagrass, substantial changes in depth and an abundance of bottom structure. These characteristics provide an environment for a myriad of thriving species, and the local fishermen take full advantage.

Fishing has been a mainstay of Vieques culture for centuries, with skills handed down from father to

son, son to grandson and so on. The vessels used are family owned, 18- to 32-feet long, deep V hull boats to handle the high seas encountered during the winter months. The crews consist of a 2- or 3-man family team, usually an uncle, cousin or close friend who have fished together for many seasons. Their fishing sites are well known to them and determine what they catch to meet the needs of the restaurants on the island.

Fisherman after snapper, grouper and hogfish leave the comfort of home in the wee hours, and lines are in the water well before sunrise. Each drop line has 2 or 3 baited hooks to entice a bite, and some will occasionally dive and test their skills with a spear gun. A good day can produce over a hundred pounds of catch.

Some southside fishermen use up to four or five trap lines to cover a large area of ocean. The traps are baited and left on the ocean floor for a day or two in a

51

GIFTS FROM THE SEA

THE VIEQUES FISHERMEN

string marked by buoys on each end. Pulled from the water with a winch and pulley system, the legal lobsters are removed, the shorts are put back and the trap is baited again and set back on the ocean floor.

On the north and south sides of the island, catching lobster and conch is a diver’s pursuit that presents challenges to both divers and crews.

When diving to a depth of 120 feet, the time allotment underwater must be calculated exactly, including a precise schedule for decompression during ascent. The only fishing apparatus used is a pair of gloves and a 3-foot stainless-steel noose to snare the lobsters from their hiding places.

Conchs - tropical mollusks with a spiral shell - live on the deep sandy bottom and the gloves are a necessity.

A mesh net tied to the diver and a buoy on the surface is crucial. The crew must stay in constant contact with the diver by watching the buoy closely. Lobster and conch fishing are a delicate dance, but the rewards can be amazing. A consistent bounty of 50 to 100 pounds is the result, depending on the time of year.

It's midmorning and the boats return laden with the delicacies of the deep. The sun is growing in intensity but their work is done. The smiles and the chatter expand as they discuss the day’s adventures. Tomorrow they’ll return to the sea once again. n For an in-depth and perceptive view of the daily workings of the Pescaderia Angelyz, go to www.viequesinsider.com and read the article “Cycle of Life'' by author Tom O’Grady Jr. in the November 2014 issue.

52

Es con profunda tristeza que los Pescadores de Vieques ofrecen sus condolencias a las familias de Marcos Calzada Parilla y Alexander Cordero Valentín, pescadores perdidos en el mar el 10 de marzo y nunca encontrados.

With heartfelt sadness the Vieques Fishermen would like to offer their condolences to the families of Marcos Calzada Parilla and Alexander Cordero Valentin, fishermen lost at sea on March 10 and not found.

Pescaderia Angelyz

Daniel Fernandez

ON THE WA T E R

PESCADERIA ANGELYZ

A 101 GUIDE

BUYING FRESH FISH, LOBSTER AND CONCH An important spoke in the wheel that keeps the Island’s commerce moving is the fish market. Pescaderia Angelyz across from the ferry dock is the port of call where the fishermen sell their catch to the market and Island chefs awaiting their arrival. The boats and fishermen return with their catch between 10-11am creating a seaside scene both lively and captivating that you won't want to miss.

If your accommodations include a kitchen or grill, a trip to La Pescaderia is essential. Bring the kids to see the school of 15- to 80-pound Tarpon cruising at the shoreline in anticipation of fish scraps. It's a memory you’ll always cherish.

Pescaderia Angelyz is open Monday through Friday from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm. Call on Saturdays just in case.

(787-918-0559) Bring cash (no cards) and a cooler with ice.

Getting to the Pescaderia is easy. As you face the ferry

B Y : C A P T. T O M K I R K B R I G H T

terminal, look to your right. Parking is limited so it is best to park near the ferry and walk down the short road to the left of El Yate bar and restaurant. The last building is the Pescaderia. Say hello to Eric and Tomas. You can buy live or frozen lobster, conch and fish. You can get a whole fresh fish and Tomas will clean and filet it with a sharp knife and a smile.

Red grouper and yellowfin snapper are available until sometime in May. Hogfish and lobster are available throughout the year. Red snapper is available April through January. No Mutton snapper May to August and no Conch August thru October.

For those who prefer to catch their own, regulations and seasons are posted @: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/ southeast/rules-and-regulations/current-fishing-regulations-us-caribbean n

IF YOU ARE FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO PURCHASE LIVE LOBSTER TO TAKE HOME, WRAP THEM IN DAMP NEWSPAPER OR A DAMP HAND TOWEL AND PLACE IN THE FRIDGE. THEY SHOULD LAST FOR ABOUT 48 HOURS, BUT WHY WAIT! 53

Your one stop market for all of your vacation needs!

(787) 968-3130

CALLE LUIS MUNOZ RIVERA #102, BO. ISABEL II Vieques, Puerto Rico

• FRESH PRODUCE • SPECIALITY MEATS AND CHEESES • WINE AND CHAMPAGNE ROOM • CRAFT BEER • ORGANIC, KETO, KOSHER, & VEGAN • GENERAL GROCERIES • BAKERY AND DELI COUNTER • PET SUPPLIES 6am-10pm • BEACH ITEMS ! everyday ys! a d AND MUCH MORE! li o h Open

Convenient stop after arriving by plane or ferry! facebook.com/FamilyMarket-Vieques

54

COV I D - 1 9

THE DREAM TEAM

NEWS

Vieques Contact Tracing Team-Keeping Vieques Safe BY: VICENTE ROSARIO

It's always good to be prepared...

Just in CASE A group of local women have put together a suitcase of items to have ready for an unexpected trip to the hospital. On Vieques, this could mean a flight to Puerto Rico if the required service is not offered here at our CDT (Center for Diagnosis and Treatment) and an overnight or more at a hospital in PR. Hospital preparedness is essential for Vieques but this list would be useful no matter where you live! justincasevieques.com

What you will find on the website:

v List of items to collect in case of an emergency hospital visit or to take to a friend in the hospital. (see below) v Directory of Main Island doctors, dentists and hospitals to help get you started. v Information about the islands' Emergency System.

TIPS FOR TRAVELERS

• Travel with your medical records and a list of your medications in your wallet.

• Bring prescription medication as it may not be available here.

• Pack a first aid kit that addresses sunburn, allergies, stings, dehydration, ear infections (common in kids who snorkel) and any other special needs.

the Vieque s Ho spital

How did Vieques fare during the pandemic? Thanks to the dedication of the island’s COVID-19 Municipal System for Case Investigation and Contact Tracing Team, the virus remained relatively under control here. Still hard at work keeping the island safe and healthy, the Tracing Team is comprised of a committed group of professionals and volunteers, including an epidemiologist, a medical doctor, a psychologist, educators and more. Together with other Vieques and Puerto Rico-based groups, the Tracing Team has so far administered almost 5,000 free antigen tests to Isla Nena residents. They have also supported weekly vaccinations, with current stats showing 86.0% of eligible people (five years and above) with at least one dose, 80.8% of eligible people (5 years and above) with at least two and 51.8% of eligible people (12 years and above) with three.

The Tracing Team made history in the service of the Vieques community.

Created, trained and supported initially by the non-profit ViequesLove, the continued success would not have been possible without the enormous contributions of doctors, nurses and medical technicians, along with the administration of Mayor Jose “Junito” Corcino, the Vieques Fire Department, Municipal and State Police, Office of Emergency Management, Vieques CDT, Puerto Rico Health Department Region in Fajardo, schools, airline pilots, restaurants, hotels and other private entities that contributed to the success of the Vieques Tracing System.

In 2022, the team continues their labor of love and commitThe Vieques Tracing System Team from left to right: ment to providing a COVID-19 Vicente Rosario Meléndez, Migdalia De Jesús Guishard, response plan, offering educaAsunción Rivera Cintrón, Dayanara Cruz Maldonado, Luz tional resources and working Selenia Correa Filomeno, Yanina Bernhard Utz Epidemiolwith the school surveillance ogist), Carmen “Nena” Rivera Acevedo, Diana M. Corcino office to keep children safe and Mena, Lizzie M. Meléndez Ortiz, Eleni M. Canisz, Erick parents, teachers and school Bermúdez Carambot. Not Pictured: Dr. José F. Figueroa personnel well informed. Additional testing events have been organized, and there will be continued surveillance testing of the population, along with monitoring the municipal and state COVID-19 data, indicators and parameters.

For information on testing events, vaccination events and any other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact our COVID-19 hotline at (787)340-3837.

>>> You may notice that Vieques businesses require masks and social distanc-

ing and residents are vigilant with continued protections. Please comply with the wishes of business owners and the community. Find travel requirements at www. travelsafepr.com and follow the Vieques Contact Tracing team at Sistema Municipal Investigación Casos y Rastreo Contactos Municipio Vieques.

BY: PAU L LU T TON

The Vieques Hospital, which was actually not a hospital but a Center for Diagnosis and Treatment (CDT), was damaged

by Hurricane María in September 2017 and its doors closed. The CDT was moved to the designated shelter in sector Las Marias and has been operating there for the last five years. The government chose to demolish the old Susano Centro CDT and build a hospital for Vieques, with previously unavailable services such as a delivery room, hyperbaric chamber, chemotherapy treatment and heliopad. At press time, the contractor Applied Engineering Group & Company Corp. was removing items from the interior of the building to start demolition. The new Vieques hospital, at an expected cost of $56 million, $49 million of which Fema has designated, is expected to be completed by 2024 according to PR Governor Pierluisi. Follow this and other news on municipio de vieques.

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The Place for Good Wine, Good People, Great Food BA R & R E S TAU R A N T S P E C I A L I Z I N G I N P U E RT O - R I CA N L O CA L C U I S I N E

IN ISABEL II

LUNES - SABADO 11AM-10PM SUNDAY 5PM-10PM

Specializing in Criole Concierge services available Private event planner Full service catering or catering delivery Private chef Cakes and dessert to order Keto and vegetarian menus

787-556-6855 787-435-9339

biekesbistro.com biekesbistro@gmail.com Cateringteambistro@gmail.com

DESIGNED ON VIEQUES The Clothing Boutique with the best selection of island wear, gifts & Accessories for women, men and children - to fit everyone’s budget!

787.548.1010 Open everyday 10am-5pm Isabel II • 350 Calle Antonio G. Mellado Next to Panaderia Viequense 56

u p dat e

VIEQUES FERRY

U P D AT E

BY: PAUL LUTTON

Vieques is experiencing a sea change: HMS Ferries has recently taken over the operation of the entire ferry system under a contract with the ATM, the government agency in charge of ferry services. The new management is eager to provide a predictable on-time operation with greater capacity and improved infrastructure as soon as possible, but it will take time.

Together with HMS, the ATM is in the process of having two new boats built, but they will not arrive until 2025.

In the meantime, finding suitable ferries to buy or lease is nearly impossible due to the restrictions imposed by the Jones Act. Consequently, HMS has been forced to lease smaller vessels often called “crew boats” (Summer Wind, Lady Brandi, Lady Eve & Mr. Row) to fill the gap. For the cargo needs of Vieques, which will grow significantly as work on the hospital and other projects kick off, retaining the barge operation will be critical.

TICKETING

Tickets are available online at https://www.puertoricoferry.com/ for about half of the passenger seats. Once those are sold, one must buy the tickets at the terminal.

The procedure is, as the inventory of available tickets reaches 35, only local residents are allowed to purchase them. The rules for standby are in a state of flux and subject to change.

VIEQUES TO CULEBRA FERRY

Only on the last Sunday of each month.

Check www.puertoricoferry.com for tickets.

Did you know? Landside infrastructure improvements at the Ceiba terminal are planned for this summer include a redesigned drop-off area, temporary parking for ticket purchasing and longer-term parking closer to the terminal. A completely paved queuing area for cargo staging is also in the works. Trailer-based toilet room facilities and a covered walkway to the boats should be available soon. Like all construction related projects, however, times can be difficult to predict due to permitting and supply chain issues.

BOAT

PASSENGER/CARGO

Isla Bonita

Passenger

375

4

Breezy Point

Passenger

185

4

Summer Wind

Passenger

185

4

Lady Brandi

Passenger/Cargo

60

4

Mr. Row

Passenger/Cargo

60

4

Barge Marilin

Cargo Only

Lady Eve

Passenger (Barge transport)

40

4

Isleño

Passenger/Cargo

106

x

Santa Maria

Passenger/Cargo

149

x

Cayo Blanco

Passenger/Cargo

450

x

Cayo Largo

Passenger/Cargo

300

x

Mr. Mason

CAPACITY

OPERATIONAL AT PRESS TIME

4

contract over

TIPS FOR TRAVELERS J Buy tickets ahead of time – online whenever possible.

J If you are bringing luggage or shopping carts, choose one of the cargo/passenger boats because the passenger only boats have very limited space for suitcases, etc.

J There are restrictions on transporting vehicles for nonresidents. Generally, it is not permitted. Rented vehicles are not permitted on the cargo boats.

J Parking in Ceiba is a quarter mile from the ticket office, so allow the extra time needed to enter the boarding area at least a half hour prior to departure – the tickets say one hour.

J Local residents have boarding priority. Many residents travel for health, school or work and rely on the ferry to get home to their families. Photo identification is required at the time of boarding to confirm the identity of the Municipal Islands resident.

57

green TRAVEL WITH A PU RPOSE

B E A G R EAT VIEQUES GUEST

BY: KE L LY T H OMP SON

58

ECO

i

lands see the enormous impact of a changing climate and are uniquely vulnerable. Vieques is no exception. For its residents, the effect of climate change is not something to debate, it is a reality made painfully clear for nearly 8 months after Hurricane Maria. With no power for all of that time and no water for much of that time, living on the island required a determination non-islanders could not imagine, only admire. The resilience of the people became amazingly evident to the rest of the world as the details of the devastation and its short- and long-term effects trickled out to the world.

Now attention is aimed at building better systems to keep water flowing and energy consistent.

Despite the pandemic, the economy is coming back and much of that is due to tourism. But the fragile and finite nature of those precious resources can't be forgotten. They are in need of constant management and awareness. Tourists can play a large role in the effort to balance sustainability and the economy.

Environmental damage done by irresponsible actions on a small island like Vieques is magnified in its impact. However, small changes by all of us can add up to make an enormous difference. The shift toward sustainability is happening and you, dear reader, are an enormous part of the effort.

You are in luck because the Vieques Insider is here to guide you while you travel the island.

By being aware of your impact on the environment and the island community, your time here is enhanced. You become stewards of our natural and limited resources, and you help ensure Vieques is here and waiting for your return.

59

green

Here are a few tips to be a great guest and minimize your impact on the island with very little effort. Help to conserve and appreciate the beautiful ecology that we are working hard to protect.

Educate yourself. Take a look at Vieques history and ecology and the organizations working to protect her. Enrich your experience and environmental awareness!

vqs H2O

Our drinking water comes from rivers of El Junque, the Rainforest of Puerto Rico. In compliance with state and federal regulations, the Aqueduct and Sewer Authority analyze more than 90 possible contaminants that may be in drinking water.

Vieques drinking water is 100% compliant and verified by the EPA. It is safe to drink. So save your money and skip the bottled water! Bring your own thermoflask to take with you to the beach. Hydrate!

Your body and the island will thank you!

Don't buy bottled water.

Our tap water is very safe to drink. Save your money and buy or bring a thermoflask or other refillable container instead.

Control water and electricity consumption.

Reuse towels. Take shorter showers. Turn off lights when you are out.

Turn off the AC when you leave your room for the day. Turn it on when you return. You'll save electricity and avoid mosquitos, which gather for the condensation produced by the unit.

refuse

Bring your own! Reusable bags, reusable drink cups, stainless straws.

Skip the straw!

Leave no trace when you leave the beach. Fill in holes and flatten sand sculptures so sea turtles can move from ocean to sand and back without obstacles.

Do not use balloons at the beach. Marine life will eat the fragments if they end up in the sea.

Don’t disturb coral or other sea life. Minimize your impact by snorkeling with a guide.

Use reef safe sunscreen.

reduce

reuse

Pick up trash, even if it is not your own. Keep a bag in the car or in your beach bag.

No white lights at the beach when visiting at night or camping. Light pollution is a serious matter on Vieques which affects the biobay and the birth cycle of sea turtles.

Support conservation efforts of the Non-Profits on the island. Visit www. viequesinsider.com for a complete list of NGOs and their mission.

Reduce and refuse. Minimize your disposables by choosing products that do not come in plastic.

Buy loose fruits and vegetables instead of those wrapped in plastic and Styrofoam.

recycle

compost

RECYCLING ON VIEQUES Currently dry cardboard, washed plastic and aluminum cans are recycled (aluminum and plastic does not need to be separated. The recycling staff are doing everything they can with limited crew, equipment and without electricity or water at their processing location. With only two employees and a pickup truck, they are working hard to regain the recycling efforts on Vieques. The material is transported to ISCO in Caguas, Puerto Rico. Hector Melendez, Director of Recycling has offered his personal cell number and has asked that locals organize within their neighborhoods to collect at a house and call them to come pick up the recycables from that location on a weekly basis. If you call them, they will come! Hector Melendez 787-646-4180.

DROP OFF LOCATIONS

brilliant! a rechargeable LED bulb. works as a regular led bulb but when there is a power outage, the bulb will provide light for 3-4 hours, 60

THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB on the corner of Calle Baldorioty de Castro and Benitez Guzman in Isabel Segunda.

BUNKER 403 on the West Side of Vieques on 994 serves as the recycling center. Past the airport, Parque La Ceiba and Crab Island Rum Distillery, the left turn to the recycling center is aprox 1 mi. past distillery. (If you get to the Arcadia Water Station with a field of solar panels on your right you have missed the turn.) After the turn take the right when the road splits and go down a little hill. The recycling center is the third bunker on the left. Leave your bagged recycables on the loading dock or in bins located at the entrance. Make a day of it by visiting the Ceiba tree, Rompeolas pier, Crab Island Rum Distillery and then visit the bunkers stopping at Bunker 403 to recycle!

Did you enjoy a trip to the Bio Bay? Learn how you can help support conservation efforts by the Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust to protect the bay for future generations. Go to www.vcht.org to learn more and show your support!

ISLA NENA COMPOSTA 787-309-8408

Open /Abierta Monday-Friday Lunes-Viernes 7am-12pm, 1pm-3pm Inside FWS Refuge

REPURPOSE! There are two locations to donate clothing and goods.

VER THRIFT STORE on the corner of Calle Muñoz Rivera and 200 in Isabel II. All proceeds go to helping cancer patients on the island. 9am-2pm BAZAR LA CARIDAD of the Church of Immaculate Concepción on Calle Carlos Lebron and Calle Benitez Castano. Mon, Thurs, Fri and some Saturdays 9am-1pm. 787-590-8575 61

Weekdays

E x perience Mind-Blowing Fine Fare on the main dr ag in Is abel II

Deli Market Wine & Spirits

Breakfast & Lunch

Weekdays 8-5

K itchen 6pm Bar Opensda5y, Thursday & Friday Monday, Tues

Wild Wednesdays 5-9pm MUSIC by KIWI KIM • DEXTER’S BBQ

Sunset at

Saint Voodoo’s Mar Azul Bar and Grill

Cold Beer Great Food Frozen Drinks Open Thursday~Monday Karaoke Saturday Nights On the water one block from the Ferry Pier~ Isabel II, Vieques 62

DANIEL FERNÁNDEZ PHOTOGRAPHY Making memories last...

P O R T R A I T S ES S I O N S FO R I N D I V I D UA L S , FA M I L I ES , CO U P L ES A N D K I D S

DANIEL FERNÁNDEZ - Cinematographer, photographer

daniel@dfernandezcine.com | c. 323.578.5788 63

Become a member for $25 or donate to support environmental conservation on Vieques.

WWW.TICATOVE.ORG

Creative Eclectic Cuisine “Creative Varied Cuisine” Thursday to Saturday 12:00-8:00 pm The best empanadas in the Island

Join Environmental volunteer events during your vacation or year-round for residents: Contact: Greg@ticatove.org ••• Read conservation news in Spanish & English ••• Find GPS Hiking Trails on and off the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.

Thursday to Saturday 12pm-8pm @ Crab Island Rum Distillery

939-208-4964 vdcotto25@icloud.com

st s be da s! e na e Th pa qu ie em n V o

Catering for any size group.

TiCaToVe has been a conservation partner of the VNWR for 15 years working on the sea turtle program and conservation jobs for local young adults. Newer programs include viewing platforms for visitors, interpretive signage and hiking trails.

Text us at 787-428-8288 PO Box 217, Vieques, PR 00765 WWW.TICATOVE.ORG AD PAID FOR BY BOARD MEMBERS OF TICATOVE PHOTO: MARGARET GRIFFIN

Oceanfront Vacation Villas www.atthewaves.com atthewavesvieques@gmail.com 64

For us, it’s all about Community…

RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL AND LAND SALES !

LONG TERM AND SEASONAL RENTALS OVER 3 MOS. Office Hours: TUE, WED, AND FRI 9AM-1PM AND BY APPOINTMENT

OFFICE: 787.741.4312 email: rainbowvqs@gmail.com 278 Flamboyan Esperanza https://www.facebook.com/viequesrainbowrealty

www.viequesrainbowrealty.com

Longest Established Brokerage in Vieques!

Over 45 years combined experience.

Yes! It matters!

Gustavo Marin, Broker 787.225.5604 (Lic 9905) Lin Wetherby, Ownerwww.viequesrainbowrealty.com Broker 787.380 4990 (Lic 7941)

Hix Island House is more than a hotel, it is an experience.

www.hixislandhouse.com

VQ S F L AVO R

sofrito

10-12 ajíes dulces (may substitute 2 cubanelle peppers)

COCINA DE VICENTE ROSARIO

½ red or yellow onion

Vieques is home to many delicious local dishes, and you can find our “soul food” almost anywhere on the island. Our secret? SOFRITO, the base seasoning for almost everything we cook, from rice and beans to chicken and fish and more. Sofrito makes flavors fly, and it all starts with standout ingredients like fresh ajíes dulces (sweet peppers) and recao (cilantro’s culinary cousin) Next time you cook, give Puerto Rican sofrito a try. ¡Buen provecho! n

3 cloves garlic

Buen Provecho -

10 – 12 leaves recao (may substitute cilantro)

Blend all ingredients in food processor or blender.

Pour into airtight container and refrigerate.

Enjoy your meal!

65

villadospalmas.viequespr@gmail.com Villa Dos Palmas Vieques, PR

We have heard that in America there is so much fresh water they pee in it.

CONSERVE OUR RESOURCES

“This stay wasuatiful unique and bceea. ” experien

& HORSEBACK RIDING

SeaGate Hotel offers very comfortable lodging at an affordable price! Rooms starting at $109.

201-450-8238 or 787-741-4661 concierge@seagatehotel.com facebook.com/seagatehotel ORIGIN A

HE

66

ANY • T MP

OCEAN VIEWS and a short walking distance to Isabel II.

IEQUE S DING CO RI

LV

www.seagatehotel.com

Open for Dinner @ 5:30 • 453 Calle Carlos LeBrum, Isabel Segunda

787-438-1100 Check Facebook for days open

/TavernaVieques

Mon-Fri 10-6pm Sat 10-2pm Sun closed

Grand Opening!

Tops, hats, fine fashion, jewelry, homewear, gifts, bikinis, páreos, accessories and more!

Relaxation delivered right to your door!

Dulce Mango Boutique

INGRID BERGMAN

Nationally Certified Massage Therapist • Swedish Deep Tissue Neuromuscular Therapy

787-435-1313

From A to Z with a Brazilian Twist @dulcemangovieques www.dulcemango.com

www.ViequesMassage.com viequesmassage@yahoo.com

For all Vieques needs!

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buy local gif t

guide

OR O VIEQUES RT 2 01 KM 7.1

BIO BAY C O LLECT IO N GWEN BO U C H E'R @ V IEQ U ES G IF T S ESPERA NZ A

TA I N O A RT I S A N DA N I E L S I LVA O N FAC E B O O K DA N I E L . S I LVA PAGA N NANCY HOGAN AR M OUR @ LUNA LOCA ISAB EL II

D U LC E M A N G O RT 2 0 0 I S A B E L I I

KAD OSH ART GALLERY ISAB EL II

MEET MISS FUZZI David Lloyd’s book, Miss Fuzzi, is based on a true story about a dog rescued from the streets who found her forever home. Proceeds of book sales go to the Vieques Humane Society. Look for it at Vieques Gifts, Tradewinds Gift Shop, Scallywags, SeaGate Hotel, Vieques Humane Society or online: viequeshumanesociety.org 68

A MUST HAVE FOR PUERTO RICO Look for it in shops all over Veiques and Puerto Rico. By our own Assistant Editor and writer, Amy Gordon! Order a signed copy on Amazon.

F REE SPIRIT J EWELRY

BY V ICTO RIA 787 - 24 6 - 9 01 5

SIMPLE PLEASURES

S I D D H I A H U TC H I N SO N A N D G L E N W I E LG U S GA L L E RY ISABEL II

Life is a journey, not a destination... but it never hurts to reward yourself along the way.

F INCA VICTOR IA RT 995

VIEQUES HONEY APIAR IO NAY M AR , INC. 787-312 -5 848

MA MAPLAYA ISAB EL II

COQUI FIR E HOT SAUCE COQUIFIR E .COM OR IN STOR ES AR OUND THE ISLAND

SCA LLYWAG S ISA BEL II

AT R E V I DA @ E L B LO K ESPERANZA

M ELOWW SKIN @ FAM ILY M AR KET IN ISAB EL II

VIEQUES GEM ISAB EL II

CR AB ISLAND RUM VIEQUES M AD E ARTISAN RUM LOOK FOR IT AT CR AB ISLAND D ISTILLERY OR STOR ES AR OUND THE ISLAND

I VA N PA R É S L E AT H E RWO R KS 787 - 3 0 8 - 9 0 0 5

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RESERVE: WWW.ELBLOK.COM/EAT-DRINK RESERVE@ELBLOK.COM 787-741-6020

B R E A K FAST

DINNER

SATURDAY - MONDAY 8AM - 1PM

THURSDAY - MONDAY 5PM-10PM

Atrevida

an island chic beach boutique Located in the lobby of El Blok Hotel.

IF THIS WAS YOUR AD...

EVERYONE WOULD BE READING IT RIGHT NOW. IT’S EASY TO ADVERTISE WITH US. INFO@VIEQUESINSIDER.COM CHEO (ESPAÑOL) 787.556.9874 KELLY 787.435.3172 70

A N I CO N I C I N N BY T H E S E A .

L O C AT E D O N T H E M A L E C O N I N E S P E R A N Z A .

P H O N E : 7 8 7 - 74 1 - 6 0 2 0 RESERVE@ELBLOK.COM W W W. E L B L O K . C O M 71

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